Filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s highly anticipated film “Varanasi” is generating considerable buzz. The film stars South superstar Mahesh Babu, global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and versatile actor Prithviraj Sukumaran in lead roles. Recently, a video of Mahesh Babu from the film leaked on social media.
80 Percent of Shooting Completed
SS Rajamouli has shared several interesting details about the film. Eighty percent of the shooting for this mega project, being made with a budget of approximately ₹1,200 crore, has been completed so far. Rajamouli clarified the current status of his dream project. He stated that all the most challenging and large-scale action scenes have been successfully shot. Now, only dramatic scenes and patchwork remain. It will be completed between September and October this year. Visual effects (VFX) work is also currently underway, utilizing Hollywood-level CGI and VFX.
A time-travel story spanning from Antarctica to Ancient Rome
The film’s plot is unique and set on a large canvas. While the story’s foundation lies in India’s cultural capital, Varanasi, it is based on a time-travel adventure. The film will see the protagonist transcend time, traveling through the icy valleys of Antarctica, the dense jungles of Africa, and the ancient Roman Empire, etched in the pages of history. This marks the first major Indian film to be shot in the sub-zero temperatures of Antarctica.
Scenes inspired by the Ramayana and Mahesh Babu’s divine form
The plot blends mythological references with a modern twist. The story centers on the discovery of a powerful cosmic artifact. According to the makers, a significant portion of the film is inspired by events from the Ramayana. During this special sequence, Mahesh Babu will be seen in a very impressive and supernatural avatar, which the director himself says will leave audiences stunned in theaters.
The film will be the first non-English language film to be shot in IMAX 1.43:1 format.
The film ‘Varanasi’ is also set to be the first non-English language film to be shot in IMAX 1.43:1 format. The producers have prepared for a grand global release for the film. It will be released on April 7, 2027, next year. The film will be available in formats such as IMAX 3D, 4DX, and standard 2D. The film will be released simultaneously worldwide in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, as well as several major international languages.