The title announcement and first glimpse launch of SS Rajamouli-Mahesh Babu film, now titled Varanasi, happened at a massive event in Hyderabad on Saturday. The leading cast and crew of the film, including Prithviraj Sukumaran and Priyanka Chopra Jonas were present at the event. On the occasion, Prithviraj made an endearing speech about being part of an SS Rajamouli film, also sharing affectionate words about his co-stars.

Addressing the massive crowd, Prithviraj recalled, “I still remember when SS Rajamouli reached out to me a text, saying, ‘I have written an antagonist character that I think is one of my finest. Would you be interested?’ I still have that text.”

Further reminiscing the first story narration, Prithviraj added, “5 minutes into it, I was blown away. I was listening like a little boy who just got hands on new edition of his favourite comic book. Be it the scale, vision, or ambition — it was everything the biggest filmmaker pushing his own limits to a never-before territory. What truly took my breath away is the audacity of his imagination. And little did I know that Rajamouli was going to trust me with the most emotionally and physically challenging characters among his movies.”

On a lighter note, Prithviraj added, “Thank you for the trust, belief and the torturous shooting process — I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Talking about Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj stated, “Pokiri was my first ever Telugu film in a theatre. The way Mahesh Babu has built his own legacy is inspiring. You deserve this film and this film deserves you.” The Salaar actor also praised Priyanka Chopra Jonas, adding, “Jhilmil in Barfi is one of my all-time favourite performances ever, and it’s a privilege to watch you transform into Mandakini, from such close quarters.”

In Varanasi, Prithviraj plays Kumbha, a super-villain with a futuristic vibe. His character poster was the first poster to be released from the film.