Ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli is once again aiming big, this time with Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu in the lead. Titled Varanasi, the ambitious action-adventure has steadily stayed in the spotlight since its first announcement.

Backed by an estimated budget of around Rs 1300 crore, the project ranks among the most expensive Indian films ever made. The announcement and teaser alone were enough to spark widespread discussion. We were the first to report that the makers had locked April 9, 2027, for its theatrical release, planning it as a Sri Rama Navami special.

Fresh buzz around the film suggests that the team could roll out a special update on March 26, 2026, aligning with the Sri Rama Navami festival. There is no official word yet. Even so, trade circles believe a poster or a short glimpse may be unveiled on the occasion.

The cast brings together Priyanka Chopra as the female lead and Prithviraj Sukumaran in a pivotal antagonist role. Prakash Raj also features in the film, although his character details remain undisclosed. Production responsibilities are jointly handled by K Narayana under Sri Durga Arts and SS Karthikeya of Showing Business.

Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani has scored the music, and expectations remain high that the Rajamouli-Mahesh Babu collaboration will translate into a powerful big-screen experience, especially with the film being shot for IMAX.