The most expensive Indian film to date is set to make waves in global cinema.
Varanasi, directed by SS Rajamouli, is not just another movie; it’s a statement. Known for creating monumental films like Baahubali and RRR, Rajamouli has once again pushed boundaries, taking Indian cinema into previously uncharted territory.
Speaking at the Annecy Animation Festival in France, Rajamouli shared an exciting update about Varanasi.
He confirmed that the major filming has been completed, including grand action sequences, with smaller scenes expected to wrap up by September or October 2026.
This timeline ensures that post-production can proceed smoothly, leading to a worldwide release on 7 April 2027, coinciding with the festival of Ugadi.
The scale and budget of Varanasi are staggering, estimated at ₹1,400 crore.
This not only makes it the priciest Indian film ever but also the first non-English film to be shot entirely in the full 1.43:1 IMAX format.
This choice underscores Rajamouli’s vision for his film, ensuring that the narrative is presented on the most expansive canvas possible right from the start.
Addressing the choice of IMAX, Rajamouli explained, “From the beginning, we knew the sequences would be best justified in the IMAX format.
We didn’t change anything just for the format.” The crew underwent training to capture footage effectively for both IMAX and CinemaScope formats, a challenge that quickly became second nature.
The story itself matches the ambitious scale of the production. Varanasi follows the protagonist Rudhra, played by Mahesh Babu, whose cosmic journey unfolds as the ancient city faces an impending asteroid threat.
The narrative spans multiple timelines and yugas, from the Treta Yuga to the Kali Yuga, across continents from Africa to Antarctica.
Rajamouli describes it as a globetrotting adventure steeped in Indian cultural themes, reminiscent of classic adventure films like Indiana Jones but rooted in Indian mythology and spirituality.
The cast is equally impressive. Mahesh Babu stars as Rudhra, a devotee of Shiva on a significant mission.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas returns to Indian cinema after a seven-year hiatus, debuting her first look as Mandakini, wearing a saree and holding a weapon, suggesting a contemporary context.
Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the antagonist Kumbha, hinting at a technologically advanced era through his character design.
In a recent interview, Prithviraj emphasised the film’s cultural ambition, highlighting the diversity of India and the three lead actors’ representation of its vast storytelling potential.
He remarked, “Between the three of us, I think we make a grand representation of what this country is capable of telling the West.”
For the fans who have followed her from her Bollywood days to Quantico and beyond, her return to Indian cinema in a Rajamouli film evokes nostalgia and excitement.
After his trip to France, Rajamouli will resume filming in Hyderabad starting 7 July, tackling one of the film’s most ambitious scenes: a massive war sequence featuring Mahesh Babu and nearly 3,500 junior artists.
This battle is poised to be among the largest ever in a Rajamouli film, with smaller scenes presenting significant challenges as well.
The collaboration between Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu dates back to 2010, making this project fifteen years in the making.
Their patience and commitment speak volumes about the scale and ambition they believe the film deserves.
Adding to the buzz surrounding the production, James Cameron recently reviewed Rajamouli’s footage and expressed interest in visiting the film’s set, humorously offering to operate a second-unit camera.
Such interest from the director of Avatar indicates a significant shift in the global perception of Indian cinema.
Varanasi is set to release globally in standard, Dolby Cinema, and IMAX formats on 7 April 2027.