You won’t believe how Hollywood has embraced the divine aura of Lord Krishna, a central figure in Hindu mythology. While India’s film industry has long cherished tales from Hindu epics, it’s astounding to discover Hollywood, thousands of miles away, drawing inspiration from the enchanting narratives of Lord Krishna. In this eye-opening feature, we uncover Hollywood movies that have subtly or boldly referenced this beloved deity.
Oppenheimer
Dive into the world of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the genius behind the atomic bomb. What sets this movie apart is its profound connection to the Hindu epic, Bhagavad Gita. Explore Oppenheimer’s own belief in the Gita’s teachings, as the film delves into this captivating blend of science and spirituality.
Watchmen
In the intricate universe of “Watchmen,” Doctor Manhattan, a character with god-like powers, forges a direct link to Lord Krishna. Beyond their shared blue complexion, Doctor Manhattan contemplates a Bhagavad Gita verse, “Now I have become Death, the destroyer of worlds,” while witnessing an atomic bomb’s detonation. This reference delves deep into the character’s existential turmoil and its profound ties to Krishna’s timeless wisdom.
X-Men: Apocalypse
The official trailer of “X-Men: Apocalypse” stirred controversy among religious communities. The blue-skinned antagonist, Apocalypse, proclaims his divinity, likening himself to deities from various cultures, including Ra, Krishna, and Yahweh. Yet, this reference sparked backlash, especially from Hindu devotees who deemed it inappropriate and disturbing. Consequently, the reference was ultimately excised from the film.
Avatar
James Cameron’s epic “Avatar” ignited debates, particularly in India, over whether the film’s blue-skinned characters drew inspiration from Lord Krishna. During a press conference in Delhi, Cameron acknowledged the possibility of a subconscious nod to Hindu mythology, expressing his admiration for the vibrant Hindu pantheon. While the film didn’t intentionally reference religion, the connection remained intriguing, sparking conversations about its cultural influences.
A Little Princess
Alfonso Cuarón’s “A Little Princess” offers a glimpse into the realm of magic realism. In a mesmerizing scene, the character Sara narrates the story of Sita and Rama, a beloved tale from Hindu mythology. However, keen-eyed Indian fans quickly noticed that the character depicted in the film bore a striking resemblance to the flute-playing Krishna rather than Rama. This subtle yet significant homage to Krishna adds an unexpected layer of cultural richness to the narrative.
