Varanasi is an upcoming Indian Telugu-language epic science fiction action-adventure film directed by SS Rajamouli. Produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, the film marks Rajamouli’s first-ever collaboration with superstar Mahesh Babu.
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| Varanasi Movie Poster |
With an estimated budget of ₹1000–1300 crore, Varanasi is set to become one of the most expensive Indian movies ever made.
Cast
- Mahesh Babu in dual roles as Rudhra and Rama
- Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini
Supporting actors include Nassar and several international performers
Story & Inspiration
Rajamouli describes Varanasi as a “globetrotting action-adventure” in the spirit of Indiana Jones, but deeply rooted in Indian mythology. The film integrates:
- Time travel
- Ancient Kashi (Varanasi)
- 512 CE and 7200 BC eras
- Mythic themes inspired by the "Ramayana"
- Massive action sequences and spiritual symbolism
V. Vijayendra Prasad revealed the film’s emotional tone is inspired by "Raiders of the Lost Ark".
Development
- Initial discussions with Mahesh Babu started in 2010
- Script development took place between 2022–2024
- Mahesh trained in Germany in early 2024
- Official puja ceremony: "January 2, 2025"
- Filming began: "February 2025"
Filming Locations
- Hyderabad (India)
- Koraput & Odisha hilltops (India)
- Kenya & Tanzania (Africa)
- Massive Kashi sets recreated twice
Strict NDAs and phone bans were enforced to prevent leaks.
Technical Crew
- Music: M. M. Keeravani
- Cinematography: P. S. Vinod
- Editor: Bikkina Thammiraju
- VFX: V. Srinivas Mohan
- Production Design: Mohan Bingi
The film uses native "1.43:1 IMAX cameras", a rare achievement in Indian cinema.
Budget
With a budget of ₹1000–1300 crore, Varanasi surpasses:
- Kalki 2898 AD
- Baahubali series
- RRR
- Pushpa 2
Mahesh Babu and Rajamouli are working on a profit-sharing model (40% share).
Release Date
Varanasi is scheduled for a "2027 theatrical release", with dubbed versions in:
- Hindi
- Tamil
- Malayalam
- Kannada
The film is planned as a two-part saga.
Conclusion
With its massive scale, mythological world-building, and Rajamouli–Mahesh Babu collaboration, Varanasi is poised to redefine Indian cinema globally.
