S.S. Rajamouli, the visionary director behind blockbuster hits like RRR and Baahubali, has officially announced the theatrical release of his next magnum opus, Varanasi, on April 7, 2027. Starring Mahesh Babu as the fearless adventurer Rudhra, Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the menacing Kumbha, the film promises a globe-trotting action-adventure that fuses mythology, high-octane thrills, and cinematic spectacle.
Set against the backdrop of Antarctica, Africa, and the holy city of Varanasi, the story draws inspiration from Indiana Jones-style quests and James Bond action sequences, while embedding Hindu mythological elements, including nods to the Ramayana. Rajamouli co-wrote the screenplay with V. Vijayendra Prasad, ensuring the narrative balances heart, heroism, and grandeur across continents.
Fans first caught hints of the project through mysterious hoardings in Varanasi, sparking widespread speculation and aligning the release with the Ugadi and Gudi Padwa holidays. With a reported ₹1,000–1,300 crore budget, Varanasi is shaping up to be one of the most expensive Indian films ever made, reflecting Rajamouli’s commitment to blending scale with storytelling.
The technical crew behind the film is equally stellar. M. M. Keeravani returns to compose the music, P. S. Vinod handles cinematography, and V. Srinivas Mohan leads the visual effects team. Notably, Varanasi is the first Indian film—and first non-English film—to be shot in the 1.43:1 IMAX format, promising an immersive experience for audiences worldwide.
Rajamouli described the film as a celebration of Indian cultural themes through a modern, adventurous lens, combining classic adventure cinema tropes with heart-stopping action. The blend of mythology, globetrotting action, and high-stakes adventure positions Varanasi as a potential game-changer in Indian cinema.
With its worldwide release slated for April 7, 2027, coinciding with festive celebrations, fans are gearing up for a cinematic journey that promises mythology, adventure, and visual spectacle on an unprecedented scale.