HYDERABAD, India — Acclaimed filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, the visionary behind global blockbusters like ‘RRR’ and ‘Baahubali,’ has revealed his latest cinematic venture, ‘Varanasi,’ at a grand event in Hyderabad. The announcement, made on Saturday, November 15, 2025, drew thousands of enthusiastic fans eager to witness the first look of the highly anticipated film. Known for his epic storytelling and groundbreaking visual effects, Rajamouli has once again pushed the boundaries of Indian cinema with this ambitious project. The film, previously code-named ‘Globe Trotter,’ promises a visually stunning time-travel adventure intertwined with elements of Hindu mythology, drawing inspiration from the sacred city of Varanasi. Rajamouli confirmed that ‘Varanasi’ will be released in IMAX format in 2027, further elevating its global appeal. The star-studded cast includes Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, Bollywood-turned-Hollywood actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran. Chopra Jonas, returning to Indian cinema after her Hollywood endeavors, portrays the character Mandakini, depicted in a striking poster balancing on a cliff with a pistol in hand. Babu, making his first collaboration with Rajamouli, appears as a fierce warrior riding a white bull, a scene that left fans in awe during the event. The unveiling, held at Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City, featured a massive 110-by-130-foot screen, replicas of Varanasi, and a dazzling display of lights and fireworks, transforming the occasion into a vibrant celebration. Rajamouli’s previous works, including the Oscar-winning ‘RRR’ and the record-breaking ‘Baahubali’ series, have cemented his reputation as a trailblazer in global cinema. Fans traveled from across the country to witness the event, underscoring the cultural significance of Rajamouli’s work and the growing influence of Tollywood on the global stage. ‘Varanasi’ is poised to be another milestone in Indian cinema, blending mythic grandeur with cutting-edge filmmaking.
SS Rajamouli unveils time-travel adventure film ‘Varanasi,’ with elements of Hindu mythology
