SS Rajamouli has officially clarified that his highly anticipated project ‘Varanasi’, featuring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, will release as a single standalone film, quashing months of speculation about a multi-part structure. The director made this announcement recently amid buzz from fans eager for details on this ambitious venture, previously known by working titles like ‘Globe Trotter’. Set for theatrical release on April 7, 2027, in IMAX, the film promises a visually stunning time-travel adventure infused with Hindu mythology, including elements from the Ramayana.
Project Background
Unveiled in November 2025 at a grand event in Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City, ‘Varanasi’ draws its name from the sacred Hindu city, hinting at deep cultural roots blended with large-scale action and spectacle. A nearly four-minute teaser showcased epic visuals, with Mahesh Babu introduced as a bloodied warrior on a white bull wielding a trident, marking his first collaboration with Rajamouli. Priyanka Chopra joins as a lead, alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran, building on Rajamouli’s legacy of blockbusters like ‘RRR’ and ‘Baahubali’.
Creative Vision and Production
Rajamouli emphasized crafting one comprehensive narrative after early discussions on format, opting against the sequel approach of past epics to deliver a complete story. The plot remains under wraps but centers on time-travel escapades inspired by mythological episodes, promising Rajamouli’s signature fusion of rooted tales and groundbreaking VFX. Production is underway, with the team aiming to make the nation proud through this once-in-a-lifetime endeavor, as Babu described it during the reveal.
Fan Anticipation and Release
The confirmation ends “sequel mania” rumors, focusing excitement on a unified cinematic experience timed for Ugadi 2027. Following ‘RRR’s Oscar success, ‘Varanasi’ positions Rajamouli for another global milestone, with new posters and teasers fueling hype across Telugu cinema and beyond. This single-film format allows for a tighter, more immersive spectacle expected to captivate audiences worldwide.
