Excitement Builds for SS Rajamouli's Varanasi Featuring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra

SS Rajamouli's highly anticipated film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, is stirring excitement among fans. With its unique budget and IMAX format, the film promises a captivating narrative linked to the Ramayana. Writer V Vijayendra Prasad has teased a significant battle sequence between Rama and Kumbhakarna, adding to the intrigue. Mahesh Babu's transformation into Lord Rama required extensive training, showcasing his dedication to the role. Set for release during Sankranti 2027, Varanasi is shaping up to be a monumental cinematic experience.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 07:00 IST

Anticipation Grows for Varanasi

The upcoming film Varanasi, directed by SS Rajamouli and starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is generating significant buzz among audiences. Since the release of its initial teaser, fans have been eagerly analyzing each frame for hints about its narrative and its ties to the Ramayana. Recently, writer V Vijayendra Prasad heightened the intrigue by discussing a pivotal battle scene inspired by mythology. Varanasi, with a production budget of Rs 1000 crore, is notable for being the first non-English film shot in the 1.43:1 IMAX format.

Vijayendra Prasad Hints at a Key Mythological Scene

During a recent interaction with fans organized by Filmy Focus, Vijayendra Prasad addressed the much-anticipated 30-minute sequence. When asked if this segment was rooted in mythology, politics, or spirituality, the seasoned writer disclosed that it centers around a conflict between Rama and Kumbhakarna. He remarked, “You saw in the trailer, didn't you? You witnessed Rama and Kumbhakarna, along with Lord Hanuman’s tail and a chariot. I’m referring to that… it’s mesmerizing.” However, he refrained from divulging further details. When questioned about the inclusion of time zones in the film, he stated, “We shouldn’t discuss that any further.”

Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu Discuss Film Challenges

At the film's launch event last year, Rajamouli confirmed Mahesh Babu's portrayal of Lord Rama in a segment of the story. The director expressed that witnessing Mahesh in costume for the first time was an emotional experience. He praised the actor for embodying both Krishna's charisma and Rama's tranquility, making him a perfect fit for the role. Rajamouli noted that filming this sequence took nearly 60 days and required meticulous planning, calling it one of the highlights of his career.

Mahesh Babu shared that stepping into the role of Ram necessitated a complete departure from contemporary norms. “Playing Lord Rama demanded a specific posture,” he explained to Variety. “You can’t adopt a modern stance.” To achieve the character's historical appearance, Mahesh underwent three months of rigorous Kalari martial arts training, not just for action scenes but to refine his posture, balance, and body alignment. He expressed satisfaction upon seeing the final shot, deeming the six months of physical preparation as "worth it." Directed by SS Rajamouli, Varanasi features Mahesh Babu as Rudhra, Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the villain Kumbha. The film is currently in production and is slated for release during Sankranti 2027.