S.S. Rajamouli Locks April 7, 2027 Release for ‘Varanasi’ – Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas & Prithviraj Sukumaran in Epic Globe-Trotting Adventure

Breaking Update | January 30, 2026

S.S. Rajamouli, the visionary director behind the Oscar-winning phenomenon RRR, has officially announced the worldwide theatrical release date for his next magnum opus: Varanasi. The highly anticipated Telugu-language action-adventure epic will hit cinemas globally on April 7, 2027, aligning perfectly with the festive celebrations of Ugadi and Gudi Padwa—a date chosen to maximize cultural impact and box-office momentum across India and international markets.

This marks Rajamouli’s long-awaited first collaboration with Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, who headlines as Rudhra, a devoted Shiva follower on a timeless, mythic quest. The ensemble cast features global sensation Priyanka Chopra Jonas in a powerhouse role as Mandakini, bringing fierce intensity and international appeal, while Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran portrays the chilling antagonist Kumbha—a brilliant, wheelchair-bound villain whose intellect makes him dangerously formidable.

Massive Scale & Ambitious Vision

Varanasi is positioned as one of the most expensive and technically groundbreaking Indian films to date, with a reported budget exceeding ₹800-1300 crore (around $100 million+). Shot in jaw-dropping locations from the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the wild expanses of Africa and the sacred ghats of Varanasi, the story spans thousands of years, weaving elements of Hindu mythology, high-octane action, futuristic warfare, and profound spiritual themes.

Filmed specifically for IMAX (including immersive 1.43:1 format), the project promises larger-than-life visuals, groundbreaking VFX, and adrenaline-pumping sequences inspired by global adventure franchises like Indiana Jones and James Bond, while staying deeply rooted in Indian cultural ethos.

Oscar-winning composer M.M. Keeravani reunites with Rajamouli for the score, ensuring a thunderous, emotionally resonant soundtrack that builds on the legacy of “Naatu Naatu” from RRR.

Co-written by Rajamouli and his father V. Vijayendra Prasad, the film is produced under Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business. Development began years ago—initial talks with Mahesh Babu trace back to 2010—but the project gained momentum post-RRR‘s global success.

Teaser, Poster & Growing Hype

The November 2025 teaser and first-look posters already set social media ablaze: Mahesh Babu commanding the frame with a trident, Priyanka in dynamic action mode, and Prithviraj exuding menace. Hoardings in Varanasi city and widespread fan buzz have elevated expectations, with the film now eyed as 2027’s biggest non-Hollywood cinematic event.

The April 7 slot strategically positions Varanasi to dominate the box office, following earlier rumors of a January release that were shifted for optimal impact.

Why ‘Varanasi’ Is a Game-Changer for Indian Cinema

Building on RRR‘s international acclaim—including an Academy Award—Varanasi aims to push Indian storytelling further onto the global stage. With its star power spanning Tollywood, Bollywood, Mollywood, and Hollywood, plus Rajamouli’s unmatched flair for spectacle, this could be the defining epic of the decade.

Fans, mark your calendars: April 7, 2027 – Varanasi arrives to redefine epic cinema.

Stay locked on Masala Mirror for exclusive first looks, trailer drops, cast interviews, and all the latest buzz from South Indian and pan-Indian cinema!