Thousands of fans gathered to witness the reveal of what Rajamouli himself calls one of his “most ambitious films yet.” With a star-studded cast, groundbreaking visuals, and a narrative rooted in ancient Hindu lore, Varanasi is already being hailed as India’s next global cinematic milestone.
A Grand Reveal: Rajamouli Introduces a Monumental Vision
Long referred to under the codename Globetrotter, Varanasi has generated buzz across the film world for months. Rajamouli finally lifted the curtain, describing the film as a sweeping adventure that merges time-travel with powerful mythological elements.
The director revealed that one of the film’s most pivotal sequences draws inspiration from a profound episode in the Ramayana. Shot over 60 intense days, Rajamouli admitted it was among the most challenging scenes he has ever filmed.
“While writing every scene and every dialogue, I felt like I was floating,” — S.S. Rajamouli told an electrified audience.
His words instantly fueled excitement, cementing the belief that Varanasi is poised to become one of the most innovative Indian films ever created.
Mahesh Babu Joins Rajamouli: A Historic Collaboration Begins
The highlight of the evening came with the dramatic entry of Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, making his first-ever collaboration with Rajamouli. Riding in on a mechanical white bull, he embodied the fierce, larger-than-life persona displayed in his first-look poster — a warrior armed with a trident and a gaze filled with purpose.
Calling Varanasi a “once-in-a-lifetime project”, Babu declared, “I will make everyone proud. The whole of India will be proud of us.”
His words, paired with the film’s monumental scale, instantly sparked massive anticipation among fans across the country.
Priyanka Chopra Returns to Indian Cinema as Mandakini
In another show-stopping moment, Priyanka Chopra took the stage, marking her much-awaited return to Indian cinema after her global Hollywood journey. Elegantly dressed in white, she was met with roaring applause as she introduced her role as Mandakini.
Priyanka praised her co-star with heartfelt admiration, “I know him as MB — the legendary, incredible Mahesh Babu.”
She also spoke fondly about her bond with his family, sharing that they made her feel like “Hyderabad is my home.”
Her involvement adds enormous star power and international appeal to the project.
Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha: A Formidable Antagonist Emerges
Rajamouli’s world-building is never complete without a compelling villain, and this time, Prithviraj Sukumaran steps into the role of Kumbha, the film’s central antagonist.
Calling the character “physically and emotionally exhausting,” Prithviraj hinted at the intensity and depth the role demanded. Rajamouli responded with a playful Malayalam cheer, “Enda mashe, adipoli!”
The crowd erupted as the director’s humor added warmth and relatability to the grand affair.
An Event Like No Other: Rajamouli’s Signature Grandeur on Display
The entire launch event echoed Rajamouli’s love for spectacle:
A gigantic 110x130-foot LED screen showcased breathtaking visuals
Detailed replicas of Varanasi’s ancient ghats set the stage
Fireworks, immersive music, and chanting elevated the experience
Fans witnessed a touching viral moment when Mahesh Babu’s daughter Sitara joined the crowd chanting “Jai Babu!”
The atmosphere felt less like a movie launch and more like the unveiling of a cultural celebration.
A Global-Scale Story: Time Travel Meets Mythology
Varanasi promises a cinematic journey that spans continents, timelines, and mythological realms. With IMAX presentation confirmed, the film aims to bring Indian storytelling to the world stage with unprecedented visual grandeur.
The narrative reportedly follows a world-traversing hero confronting ancient forces with ties to Hindu mythology — a concept that blends Rajamouli’s storytelling strengths with futuristic innovation.
Slated for a 2027 release, the film is already positioning itself as one of the decade’s most anticipated blockbusters.
Conclusion: “Varanasi” Set to Reshape the Future of Indian Cinema
With an unmatched creative team, powerhouse cast, and a storyline rooted in culture yet elevated by imagination, Varanasi is shaping up to be Rajamouli’s next cinematic phenomenon.
Fans and critics alike are already calling it the project that could once again put Indian cinema at the global forefront — just as RRR and Baahubali did.
As excitement soars and expectations reach new heights, one thing is clear:
S.S. Rajamouli’s “Varanasi” is not just a movie — it’s a monumental experience in the making.
