Varanasi, a time-travelling, Hindu-based movie starring Mahesh Babu as Rudhra, Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the adversary Kumbha, is SS Rajamouli’s next masterpiece. It is scheduled for an IMAX release in the summer of 2027.
Introduction
The creative filmmaker of Baahubali and RRR, Rajamouli, has formally revealed Varanasi, his upcoming major motion picture. The project’s enormous scope, romantic themes, and star-studded ensemble created a great deal of excitement when it was announced during a lavish “GlobeTrotter” event in Hyderabad.
One of Rajamouli’s most ambitious projects to date, this next film is a time-travel adventure with a strong Hindu historical foundation that blends history, imagination, and emotional depth in a way that only he can. It has already been hailed as a game-changer for Indian film by reviewers as well as audiences.
Also read: Rajamouli’s ‘SSMB29’ Globetrotter Event Goes Grand!
What Is Varanasi About?
Varanasi seems to be a broad multi-timeline tale that combines future themes with old legendary locations from the initial peek and trailer. Glimpses of the Thretha Yuga (mythic period), 512 CE, and even the present/future reveal that the film spans ages, according to Rajamouli’s trailer.
The film looks to be mainly based on Hindu epics, particularly the Ramayana. An “important episode” from the Ramayana is the inspiration for a major episode, which Rajamouli hinted at during the reveal ceremony.
High-energy action is combined with epic and spiritual elements: Rudhra, played by Mahesh Babu, is seen riding a bull (a representation of Nandi) and wielding a spear against a backdrop of temples, rivers, and fierce fighting.
Cast & Characters: Who’s Playing What
Mahesh Babu plays Rudhra, a powerful protagonist whose first-look poster shows him with a trident, a blood-stained shirt, and riding a charging bull—a very mythic visual.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays Mandakini, described as a strong, action-oriented character. Her reveal shows her in a saree, brandishing a gun—hinting at a layered persona.
Prithviraj Sukumaran is cast as Kumbha, the antagonist, shown in the first-look poster seated in a wheelchair with cybernetic arms, pointing to a futuristic or techno-mythological element.
The film’s music will be composed by MM Keeravani, Rajamouli’s longtime collaborator, who also revealed that the film is expected to be released in summer 2027.
Production Design, Duration, and Visuals
Rajamouli is said to be spending close to ₹50 crore to develop the set for his enormous reconstruction of the holy city of Varanasi in Ramoji Film City.
The film will be shot in a special IMAX format (1.43:1), which is rare for Indian films and shows how big Rajamouli’s ambitions are for this project.
From historical structures to dreamy caverns and expansive vistas, the teaser’s rich visual tapestry suggests that VFX, world-building, and cinematic scale will play a major role in the story.
Release Date & Format
According to official statements from MM Keeravani at the GlobeTrotter event, Varanasi is expected to release in summer 2027, coinciding with Sankranti.
Particularly in big-format cinemas, viewers can expect a full cinematic experience due to the film’s IMAX-friendly 1.43:1 aspect ratio.
Controversies & Challenges
Title Dispute
There is a legal tussle over the film’s title. Another production house, “Rama Bramha Hanuma Creations,” claims to have registered the title Vaaranasi (spelling variation) earlier.According to the Producers Council records, they had renewed the title registration recently.
This dispute could impact the marketing, but as of now, Rajamouli’s team continues with “Varanasi.”
Teaser Leak
Before the grand reveal, part of the teaser was leaked by a drone, which deeply frustrated Rajamouli. He lamented that a year’s worth of effort was compromised.The leak was especially painful because the event was planned as a large spectacle, with big LED screens, generators, and an elaborate setup—all of which Rajamouli mentioned during his address.
Religious Backlash
Rajamouli made a statement during the event claiming, “I don’t believe in God,” which sparked controversy among some religious groups.The title clash and his comments have added a dimension of religious and legal scrutiny around the project.
The Content of the Topic and What Makes Varanasi Unique
Mythology + Time Travel: This is not just a period film. The multi-temporal structure suggests the narrative will weave together ancient mythic themes (possibly Ramayana-inspired) with futuristic or cross-era elements.
Spiritual Resonance: By naming the film Varanasi, Rajamouli is invoking the spiritual heart of Hinduism. The visuals—bull (Nandi), trident, and temples—all point to deep symbolism.
Character Complexity: With characters like Rudhra (mythic warrior), Mandakini (action heroine), and Kumbha (villain with cybernetic edge), the film promises layered personas rather than simple archetypes.
Creativity & Growth: From IMAX filming to massive VFX work, world-building, and set construction, Rajamouli is pushing technical and creative boundaries.
Why This Film Matters (From an Experienced Perspective)
As someone who has followed Rajamouli’s career, I believe Varanasi could be a turning point in his filmmaking journey. Here’s why:
Evolution of Epic Cinema: Rajamouli’s previous works (Baahubali, RRR) already redefined what Indian epics can be. With Varanasi, he’s not just scaling up — he’s blending myth and sci-fi in a way few mainstream directors dare.
Global Ambition: The use of IMAX and VFX-heavy sequences shows that Rajamouli is again aiming for global cinematic standards, not just regional blockbusters.
Cultural Resonance: By tapping into deeply spiritual symbols, Varanasi has the potential to resonate across faiths, generations, and geographies—if handled sensitively.
Risk & Reward: The title dispute and religious controversy are real risks. But Rajamouli has always taken big risks, and his track record suggests he may navigate this well with his storytelling strength.
What to Watch For Next
Official Full Teaser/Trailer: The first glimpse raised many questions. Fans will be keenly watching for a full narrative trailer, which could reveal more about the time-travel mechanics, key plot points, and character motivations.
Music & Soundtrack: With MM Keeravani onboard, the soundtrack is likely to be a mix of epic orchestration and mythic motifs—a big part of the film’s emotional core.
Title Dispute Resolution: How the legal battle plays out could affect branding, promotional material, and even release planning.
Release Strategy: Given the IMAX format, whether the film will have a staggered release (IMAX first, then regular cinemas) will be a key factor.
Marketing and Fan Engagement: Given the hype from the GlobeTrotter event, Rajamouli’s team will likely use more immersive reveals (events, teasers) to build global buzz.
Conclusion
To sum up, Rajamouli’s Varanasi is shaping up to be more than just a big-budget film—it’s a bold, spiritually charged, visually ambitious experiment. With Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the cast is stellar. The mythological and time travel premise, massive set construction, IMAX format, and deep thematic roots promise a cinematic experience that could redefine epic Indian storytelling.
Still, there are valid concerns—the title dispute, the religious controversy, and the risk of leaks. But if Rajamouli delivers, Varanasi might not just be a movie; it could be a landmark moment in Indian cinema.