SS Rajamouli took to Twitter on November 15, 2025, to thank Mahesh Babu fans for their unwavering support during the launch event of his highly anticipated film Varanasi (formerly Globetrotter). He acknowledged the dedication of fans who traveled long distances, walked nearly 3 kilometers in cold weather, and patiently waited despite technical glitches at the Hyderabad event. Rajamouli praised their discipline, saying it reflected the devotion they have for their idol, Mahesh Babu.
The Hyderabad event, held at Ramoji Film City, provided the first glimpse of Mahesh Babu’s character, Rudra, in the much-anticipated epic. Fans, undeterred by screen freezes and other minor technical issues, stayed on to witness the launch and were impressed by the ambitious scope and scale of the project. Rajamouli’s heartfelt acknowledgment highlighted the deep bond between Telugu cinema stars and their fans, who often travel from far and wide to show support.
Varanasi is an upcoming Indian Telugu-language epic action-adventure film directed by S. S. Rajamouli and co-written with V. Vijayendra Prasad. Produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, the film stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Conceptualized as a globetrotting adventure rooted in Indian culture, the film combines high-octane action with emotional storytelling, reflecting Rajamouli’s signature cinematic style.
The project has been in discussion since 2010, but it only came to fruition after Rajamouli completed RRR in 2022. Principal photography began in Hyderabad in early 2025 and later continued in locations such as Kenya and Odisha. With a reported budget of 1,000–1,200 crore, Varanasi is set to become the most expensive Indian film ever made, promising an unprecedented scale for Indian audiences.
The film’s music is composed by M. M. Keeravani, with Mohan Bingi handling production design, P. S. Vinod on cinematography, Bikkina Thammiraju editing, and V. Srinivas Mohan overseeing visual effects. Scheduled for release in 2027, Varanasi will be available in standard and IMAX formats, promising fans a grand cinematic experience. The launch event reaffirmed the excitement and anticipation surrounding the project, with Rajamouli ensuring fans felt recognized for their dedication.