'Varanasi' will make India proud, promises Mahesh Babu
What's the story
Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu recently unveiled his first look as Rudhra in the much-anticipated film Varanasi. The title reveal took place at an event in Hyderabad on Saturday, where both Babu and his wife, Namrata Shirodkar, were seen getting emotional. In his speech, the actor expressed his desire to make not just his fans but also director SS Rajamouli proud with this project.
Emotional speech
Babu's emotional tribute to his late father and Rajamouli
Babu began his speech by paying tribute to his late father, legendary actor Krishna. He recalled how Krishna had always encouraged him to do a mythological film. "My father always used to tell me...you look quite good in (mythological) getups. Do one film at least. But I never listened to him," said an emotional Babu. He added, "The whole of India will be proud...when Varanasi releases. This is just the title announcement. There is so much in store."
Director's insight
Rajamouli's dream project: A scene from the 'Ramayana'
Rajamouli revealed that a significant sequence in Varanasi would be based on the Ramayana. He shared that since childhood, he had often spoken about what the Ramayana and Mahabharata meant to him, and how making them had always been his dream. The Baahubali director added that he never imagined getting to shoot a crucial episode from the Ramayana, expressing his excitement at the opportunity.
Actor's transformation
Babu's transformation into Lord Rama for 'Varanasi'
Rajamouli also revealed that on the first day of shooting, when Babu appeared in Lord Rama's look for a photoshoot, he got goosebumps. He shared that he had even set this look as his phone wallpaper for some time. Varanasi will also star Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran in lead roles. It is being produced by KL Narayana and will be released in summer 2027.
Twitter Post
In case you missed it, here's the teaser
Here you go… VARANASI to the WORLD…https://t.co/3VJa3zpUNb
— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) November 15, 2025