Renowned filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, director of the blockbuster “RRR,” has revealed the release date for his highly anticipated next project, “Varanasi.” The Indian action-adventure epic is set to premiere globally on April 7, 2027, positioning it as one of the major international releases of 2027.
“Varanasi” marks a collaboration between Rajamouli and Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani, who earned the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Naatu Naatu” from “RRR.” The film features a star-studded cast, led by Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, alongside Bollywood icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Pan-Indian actor Prithviraj Sukumaran.
The film’s narrative spans thousands of years and crosses multiple continents, with filming locations ranging from Antarctica to Africa and the historic Indian city of Varanasi. Described as being “in the vein of Indiana Jones and James Bond,” the story follows Mahesh Babu’s character Rudhra, with Chopra Jonas portraying Mandakini, and Sukumaran as the antagonist Kumbha. First-look footage was unveiled by Rajamouli in November.
Since its release in 2022, “RRR” has become a global phenomenon, garnering critical acclaim and breaking box office records worldwide. The film’s success, including its historic Oscar win, marked a milestone for Indian cinema on the international stage, and it remains the fifth-highest grossing Indian film of all time.
Mahesh Babu, one of Indian cinema’s biggest stars, boasts a career spanning over two decades with hits like “Srimanthudu,” “Bharat Ane Nenu,” and “Maharshi.” Priyanka Chopra Jonas has bridged Bollywood and Hollywood with notable works including “Bajirao Mastani,” “Mary Kom,” “Barfi!,” and series like “Citadel.” Prithviraj Sukumaran is a versatile actor and producer known across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films, with recent credits including “Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire,” “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” and “The Goat Life.”
Produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, with K.L. Narayana and S.S. Karthikeya serving as producers, “Varanasi” promises to be another milestone in Rajamouli’s illustrious filmmaking career.