Telugu cinema milestone Shiva, which launched Nagarjuna’s career and established Ram Gopal Varma as a visionary director, has completed 36 years since its release. Ahead of the film’s re-release, Varma shared insights on social media, stating that revisiting the character after decades allowed him to fully grasp Shiva’s depth in ways he could not at age 26. The director described gaining new understanding while watching the film in preparation for its re-release.
Varma highlighted that Shiva is defined by immense self-respect and moral courage. Unlike conventional heroes, the character does not fight for fame or revenge, and his strength lies in quiet resistance. “Shiva confronts oppression not for glory but because he cannot tolerate it. His rebellion is internal, and his calm exterior contrasts the storm of principles within,” Varma noted, emphasizing that even without interest in politics or gangs, Shiva’s fearlessness naturally commands respect.
The director elaborated on the character’s psychological duality, explaining that Shiva seeks peace but resorts to violence only when necessary. “His courage comes from clarity, not absence of fear. He understands the purpose of his actions, and that clarity protects him. He cannot tolerate others being dominated, viewing it as an affront to human dignity,” Varma said. Shiva’s measured silence acts as a shield and conveys readiness to face any challenge, with violence being the only language understood by corrupt systems and oppressors.
Regarding authority, Varma clarified, “Shiva does not hate power, but he opposes its misuse. Power must protect dignity, not dominate. Criminals and politicians fear him because he cannot be bribed or intimidated.” He concluded that Shiva represents the principle of how integrity can challenge a flawed system. “He became a hero not through victory but by refusing to lose himself. That is why Shiva remains an iconic character even 36 years later.”