The film Varanasi, directed by S. S. Rajamouli, is an upcoming Indian Telugu-language epic action-adventure movie. It stars Mahesh Babu in a dual role, alongside Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The narrative centers around the character Rudhra, portrayed by Babu, as he navigates the challenges posed by an impending asteroid threat to the city of Varanasi.
Set to be released on April 7, 2027, the film is notable for its ambitious budget of ₹1,400 crore, making it potentially the most expensive Indian film ever produced. The story unfolds across multiple timelines, spanning various eras from Treta Yuga to Kali Yuga, and traverses continents, including locations in Africa and Antarctica.
Rajamouli, known for his previous works like Baahubali, aims to create a globetrotting adventure that retains Indian cultural themes, drawing inspiration from classic adventure films. The film’s production began after the success of RRR in 2022, with principal photography starting in February 2025 in Hyderabad, and later extending to various locations including Odisha and Kenya.
In addition to its high production values, Varanasi is the first Indian film to be shot in the 1.43:1 IMAX format, enhancing its visual appeal. The film features music by M. M. Keeravani and is expected to incorporate extensive visual effects, overseen by V. Srinivas Mohan.
Overall, Varanasi promises to be a significant addition to Indian cinema, combining action, adventure, and cultural elements in a grand narrative.