India’s master storyteller SS Rajamouli, known for redefining scale in Indian cinema, introduced his next magnum opus with Mahesh Babu through a spectacular visual presentation of their film, Varanasi, at a grand event on Saturday. A specially cut concept trailer played on a massive screen, revealing Mahesh Babu as Rudhra in what is touted to be Rajamouli’s most ambitious film yet.
The trailer sets the tone for a vast, time-spanning narrative. It begins in 512 CE and culminates at the sacred Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, suggesting a story that travels across continents and eras — from Tretayug to Kaliyug. Mahesh Babu appears in a strikingly powerful avatar, and Rajamouli’s admiration for the actor was evident as he spoke at the event later, about crafting the film’s mythological sequences.
Rajamouli revealed a stunning detail: “We had Mahesh Babu in the role of Lord Rama for the first day of the photoshoot. I always imagined him more suitable for Krishna, but he proved me wrong. I kept that image as my phone wallpaper until I realised others might see it. Every time I looked at Mahesh as Lord Rama, I got goosebumps.”
He further shared that the “Rama episode” alone was shot over 60 days. “There are many sub-episodes within it. It will be the most memorable sequence in my films and in Mahesh’s career,” he said with pride.
Mahesh Babu, visibly moved and excited, spoke about the magnitude of the project. “I wanted to come to the event in my usual blue shirt, but Rajamouli said ‘no’. I even told him I’d walk in my regular style, but again he said ‘no’. When I saw the scale of this event, even I was surprised,” he laughed.
He also spoke emotionally about the mythological character of Lord Rama. Today marks the third death anniversary of Mahesh's father legendary actor Krishna. “He always wanted me to do a mythological film because he believed I suited it. I never attempted it then. He must be listening now. This is a dream — truly a once-in-a-lifetime film”, said Mahesh Babu.
Rajamouli also offered insight into Mahesh Babu’s off-screen discipline. “Mahesh never checks his phone while working. He leaves it in the car, shoots for eight or ten hours, and only checks it after pack-up. We all should learn that from him,” the director remarked.
Priyanka Chopra, speaking about Prithviraj Sukumaran’s role, said, “He is terrifying in the film, but in real life he is the complete opposite.”
A surprising revelation came from producer KL Narayana, who shared that this dream combination was first discussed nearly 15 years ago. “I asked Mahesh to act under Rajamouli back then. Rajamouli told me he would take it up once he finished his existing commitments. He then made Eega, Baahubali, and RRR. He honoured his word, and today I’m producing Varanasi. MM Keeravani, who worked on my debut film Kshanam Kshanam, returns now as an Oscar-winning composer.”
The event opened with a stirring live performance by Shruti Haasan, who sang the song Sanchari, adding to the grandeur of the evening.
Varanasi is scheduled for a massive release in the summer of 2027. While Rajamouli stopped short of revealing further cast or story details, the first glimpse has already set sky-high expectations for what could be another landmark in Indian cinema.
