India’s numero uno director, SS Rajamouli, is currently working on his most ambitious project yet, Varanasi. The globetrotting action-adventure stars Superstar Mahesh Babu in the lead and is being mounted on a staggering budget of over Rs. 1000 crores.

According to the latest buzz, Rajamouli is not taking a direct remuneration for the film. Instead, he is said to be opting for the overseas theatrical rights as his paycheck. The film’s offshore theatrical rights are reportedly valued at around Rs. 160 crores. If this turns out to be true, it will mark the highest remuneration ever received by a director in Indian cinema.

Varanasi also features Global Star Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran in key roles. The much-anticipated project is slated to hit the big screens on April 7, 2027. The tent-pole entertainer is being bankrolled by KL Narayana under the Sri Durga Arts banner, with MM Keeravani composing the music.