The Oscar-winning director who gave us the epic RRR and the Baahubali saga is ready to redefine Indian cinema once again. SS Rajamouli upcoming films promise to push boundaries with cutting-edge technology and mythological storytelling that blends Indian culture with global appeal.
Varanasi: The Globetrotting IMAX Adventure
After winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song with “Naatu Naatu” from RRR, Rajamouli is crafting his most expensive project yet—Varanasi. This globe-trotting action adventure draws inspiration from the Indiana Jones franchise while staying rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly incorporating elements from the ancient epic Ramayana.
Quick Facts About Varanasi
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget | ₹1,300 crore ($150 million+) |
| Format | First Indian film shot in IMAX 1.43:1 |
| Release | Expected 2027 (Two 3-hour parts) |
| Lead Cast | Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Prithviraj Sukumaran |
| Genre | Time-travel adventure with mythological elements |
The film features Priyanka Chopra Jonas marking her return to Indian cinema after The Sky Is Pink (2019), playing the gun-wielding character Mandakini. Superstar Mahesh Babu appears as a fierce warrior, while Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the antagonist described by Rajamouli as “one of my finest characters”.
Production began in January 2025 with filming across exotic locations including Tanzania, Kenya, and Odisha. With strict NDAs and mobile phone bans on set, Rajamouli is maintaining unprecedented secrecy around this project.
Explore more about Rajamouli’s filmmaking journey and discover other upcoming Indian cinema projects on our platform.
What Makes SS Rajamouli’s Project Special?
According to reports, Varanasi represents Rajamouli’s vision of creating a “James Bond or Indiana Jones” adventure that retains Indian cultural roots. The ancient city of Kashi plays a crucial role in the narrative, suggesting deep mythological significance woven into an action-packed storyline.
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FAQs
Q: When will SS Rajamouli’s next film Varanasi release?
Q: What is the budget of Rajamouli’s Varanasi?
A: With a budget exceeding ₹1,300 crore (approximately $150 million), Varanasi is set to become the most expensive Indian film ever made.
