Hyderabad/New Delhi, April 7, 2026 — Exactly one year to go! The countdown has officially begun for Varanasi, the most ambitious project in Indian cinema history, directed by the visionary S.S. Rajamouli. Starring Mahesh Babu in the lead, this epic action-adventure film marks the superstar’s first on-screen collaboration with the Baahubali and RRR director and is poised to become a global cinematic milestone.
With a reported budget of around ₹1,400 crore, Varanasi promises to blend Hindu mythology, time travel, grand-scale action, and breathtaking visuals on a level that could rival or even surpass Rajamouli’s previous blockbusters.
Mahesh Babu as Rudhra – A Shiva Devotee with a Divine Mission
Mahesh Babu steps into the powerful role of Rudhra, a fierce Shiva devotee on a cosmic quest. Sources close to the production reveal that Rudhra time-travels across eras and continents in search of a mysterious cosmic artifact. In a fascinating twist, the character also doubles as an incarnation or vision of Lord Rama, bringing iconic Ramayana elements into the narrative.
The first-look posters and teaser have already created massive buzz, showing Mahesh Babu as a blood-soaked warrior riding a white bull while wielding a trishul — a visual that perfectly captures the film’s deep Shiva motifs and mythological grandeur.
Star-Studded Cast: Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran
Priyanka Chopra Jonas makes a high-profile return to Indian cinema after nearly six to seven years, playing the pivotal role of Mandakini opposite Mahesh Babu. The global icon has described the project as “career-defining” and has completed key schedules, including challenging shoots in Hyderabad, Kenya (amidst migrating wildebeests), and other international locations.
Prithviraj Sukumaran essays the main antagonist Kumbha, a character already generating excitement with his powerful entry theme teased by music composer M.M. Keeravani.
The film also features a strong supporting cast, with reports hinting at grand ensemble sequences involving temple spectacles and epic battles.
Rajamouli’s Vision: Mythology, Time Travel, and Global Scale
Written by Rajamouli along with V. Vijayendra Prasad and S.S. Kanchi, Varanasi is not just another action film — it is a globetrotting epic that seamlessly merges ancient Indian mythology with modern time-travel elements. The story unfolds across iconic locations including the holy city of Varanasi, Antarctica, African landscapes, and beyond.
Rajamouli is pushing Indian cinema’s boundaries with:
- Massive temple and cosmic battle sequences
- Stunning Shiva and Rama-inspired visuals
- High-octane action designed specifically for IMAX and premium formats
- International filming schedules that include Antarctica — a first for Indian cinema
The director has confirmed that Varanasi will be released as a single, complete film (not split into parts), with a runtime that promises to deliver a fully immersive experience.
Music by M.M. Keeravani: Grandeur Guaranteed
Oscar-winning composer M.M. Keeravani is back with Rajamouli for what promises to be another legendary soundtrack. The film will feature six songs, and Keeravani has already begun work on the background score. When asked about the music, the maestro simply posted “365” — a cheeky nod to the one-year countdown to release, while hinting at the grandeur fans can expect.
Release Date Locked: Ugadi 2027 – A Festival Extravaganza
Varanasi is scheduled for a grand worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027, perfectly timed with Ugadi (Telugu and Kannada New Year), Gudi Padwa, and other regional festivals. Makers are planning a massive pan-India and global rollout, with heavy emphasis on IMAX screens across India and key international markets.
Industry experts and fans are already predicting record-breaking openings, with early buzz suggesting the film could become one of the biggest Indian releases ever, both domestically and overseas.
Production Update: 14 Months Down, Intense Schedules Continue
The team has already shot for over 14 months, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas confirming more schedules ahead, including potential Antarctica shoots. The production is known for its meticulous attention to detail, classical filmmaking techniques, and larger-than-life sets.
Priyanka recently called one Kenya schedule a “crazy experience,” while Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj have spoken about the “intimidating yet exhilarating” challenge of working under Rajamouli’s vision.
Why Varanasi Could Be a Game-Changer for Global Indian Cinema
Following the worldwide success of RRR, Rajamouli is once again aiming to put Indian storytelling on the global map. Varanasi combines spiritual depth, high-stakes action, emotional resonance, and cutting-edge visuals — a formula that has the potential to appeal to both Indian audiences and international viewers.
For the global Indian diaspora, especially in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East, this film represents a proud celebration of Hindu mythology and Indian cinematic excellence on the biggest possible stage.
As the one-year countdown begins today, excitement is reaching fever pitch. Fans are eagerly awaiting the next teaser, songs, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
Varanasi is not just a movie — it is an epic journey that promises to take audiences from the ghats of Varanasi to the edges of the world and beyond.
About the Film Varanasi is produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business. Cinematography is handled by P.S. Vinod, with visual effects by V. Srinivas Mohan. The film will release in Telugu with dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and other languages.
