SS Rajamouli’s Next Epic ‘Varanasi’: Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra & a ₹1000 Crore Adventure Rooted in Mythology

When SS Rajamouli makes a movie, the entire country sits up and watches. After RRR swept the Oscars and made “Naatu Naatu” a global anthem, fans have been waiting to see what the Baahubali director will do next. Now, the wait is over Rajamouli’s next film is officially titled Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra in lead roles. And from what we know so far, this could easily become the biggest Indian film ever made.

Why ‘Varanasi’?

The film’s title wasn’t chosen randomly. Rajamouli reportedly fought to secure the rights to the name Varanasi, which perfectly fits the movie’s mythological theme. The story is said to revolve around the sacred city of Kashi, where mythology, faith, and adventure collide. Think Indiana Jones—but through an Indian lens, with Lord Shiva’s energy running through every frame.

The Grand Launch Event

Mark your calendars: November 15, 2025. Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad, will host a launch event like never before—live-streamed on JioHotstar for fans across the globe. Over one lakh fans are expected, with a 100-foot LED tower already built just for the reveal. The event will feature Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani. This is not just a film announcement—it’s a festival for Indian cinema.

The Cast: Powerhouse Line-up

Mahesh Babu as the Hero

Mahesh Babu takes on a role inspired by Lord Hanuman—a fearless, spiritual warrior on a reluctant journey. His first-look poster, released on his 50th birthday, shows him wearing a pendant of Lord Shiva’s trishul and Nandi. Fans call it “the most powerful look of his career.”

Priyanka Chopra’s Comeback

For the first time since The Sky Is Pink (2019), Priyanka returns to Indian cinema in a mysterious, strong role with shades of grey. Her recent Hyderabad schedule has already created massive buzz on social media.

Prithviraj Sukumaran as the Villain

Rajamouli loves his villains—think Bhallaladeva or the British governor in RRR. This time, Prithviraj steps into the antagonist’s shoes, promising a performance fans won’t forget.

R Madhavan Rumoured to Join

While not yet confirmed, sources say Madhavan may play Mahesh Babu’s father—a symbolic link between faith, science, and legacy.

The Story: Where Myth Meets Adventure

Written by Vijayendra Prasad, the man behind Baahubali and RRR, Varanasi is described as a globe-trotting jungle adventure rooted in the Ramayana. The core idea? A modern-day hero on a Hanuman-like mission to find a mystical healing herb that could save humanity. But unlike Hanuman, Mahesh Babu’s character begins his journey unwillingly—setting up a deep inner conflict that mirrors our own struggles between duty and desire.

The spiritual essence of Kashi (Varanasi) plays a central role—almost as if the city itself is a character.

The Budget: ₹1000 Crore and Counting

Yes, you read that right. Varanasi is estimated to cost a jaw-dropping ₹1000 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian films ever. A ₹50 crore replica of Varanasi has been built at Ramoji Film City, complete with ghats, temples, and riverfronts. This single set has already broken records. Interestingly, Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu have chosen profit-sharing deals instead of hefty salaries—showing their faith in the film’s long-term success.

Shooting Across Continents

From Hyderabad to Odisha’s jungles, and all the way to Kenya’s Masai Mara, the film’s production covers multiple continents. Kenya’s government even praised the project publicly, calling it “Asia’s biggest production.”

Upcoming schedules are expected in Europe and the Middle East, ensuring a truly global visual experience.

Music and Team

• Producer: KL Narayana under Durga Arts

• Music: MM Keeravani (with Kaala Bhairava assisting)

• Lyrics: Chandrabose

• Writer: Vijayendra Prasad

Keeravani has promised music that will “bring unimaginable magic.” Expect devotional grandeur meets global soundscapes.

Release Date

The film is eyeing a March 25, 2027 worldwide release—exactly five years after RRR. If all goes to plan, it will hit over 120 countries simultaneously, a first for any Indian film.

Why ‘Varanasi’ Will Be a Game-Changer

• First-ever Rajamouli & Mahesh Babu collaboration

• Priyanka Chopra’s homecoming to Bollywood

• OTT livestream film launch (never done before in India)

• ₹1000 crore budget with global release

• A blend of Indian mythology and Hollywood-style adventure

With Baahubali and RRR, Rajamouli redefined Indian cinema. With Varanasi, he seems ready to redefine world cinema itself.

Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab (FAQs)

1. What is SS Rajamouli’s next movie after RRR?

Rajamouli’s next movie is titled Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra. It is an adventure thriller inspired by Indian mythology.

2. What is the release date of Varanasi movie?

Varanasi is expected to release on March 25, 2027, with a simultaneous global launch in over 120 countries.

3. What is the budget of SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi?

The film’s budget is around ₹1000 crore, making it one of India’s most expensive productions ever.

4. Which city is the movie Varanasi based on?

The story is set in the spiritual city of Kashi (Varanasi) and features mythological references to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman.

5. Who composed music for Varanasi movie?

Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani is handling the music with lyrics by Chandrabose.