Eklavya: The Royal Guard(2007)
Eklavya: The Royal Guard is a 2007 Indian Hindi-language epic crime drama film directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan as the title character, with Saif Ali Khan, Sharmila Tagore, Sanjay Dutt, and Vidya Balan in supporting roles. Set in the fictional kingdom of Devigarh, the story follows an aging blind royal guard who has protected the royal family for 65 years while hiding a devastating secret about the queen and her son. The film blends elements of family drama, action, and tragedy. It was noted for its strong performances, particularly by Amitabh Bachchan, and its atmospheric cinematography. The film received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for its emotional core. It was released on 16 February 2007.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 2007
- Director
- Vidhu Vinod Chopra
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 17m
- Rating
- 6.2/10
Storyline
An aging blind royal guard named Eklavya has protected the royal family of Devigarh for 65 years. When the king is murdered, his son Harsh returns from London to claim the throne. Eklavya must protect Harsh from assassins while keeping a dark secret that could destroy the family forever.
“A secret that will change everything.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Eklavya: The Royal Guard
Cast reunions in this film: Jackie Shroff & Sanjay Dutt (9 films together), Amitabh Bachchan & Sanjay Dutt (9 films together), Boman Irani & Amitabh Bachchan (7 films together), Jackie Shroff & Amitabh Bachchan (6 films together), Boman Irani & Sanjay Dutt (6 films together), and Boman Irani & Saif Ali Khan (4 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Eklavya' references a legendary archer from the Mahabharata, mirroring the guard's loyalty.
- Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra shot the film at a real fort, the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur.
- Amitabh Bachhan performed his own sword-fighting stunts for his role despite being in his mid-60s.
- The film was India's official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 80th Academy Awards.
- The crew built a massive, functional drawbridge at the fort for a key scene, which remains there.
- The original script was written in the 1990s but took over a decade to reach production.
- Despite its star cast, the film was not a major commercial success at the box office.