Mahesh Babu's 'Varanasi': Telugu title slightly tweaked after copyright dispute
What's the story
The title of SS Rajamouli's upcoming film, Varanasi, has been changed to Rajamouli's Varanasi for the Telugu version, reported Bollywood Hungama. This decision was made to resolve a copyright dispute with director CH Subba Reddy, who had registered the same title earlier in 2023. The other language versions, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and English, will retain the original title. The film stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
Title change
'Varanasi' title change: A strategic move
An industry insider told Bollywood Hungama, "The name Varanasi has already got associated with SS Rajamouli's film, more so after the launch." "The event was widely watched on JioHotstar; it was probably the first time that an Indian film was announced in this grand fashion." "Crores were spent on the ground as well for the event. Hence, Varanasi has now got deeply stuck with the project and naming it Rajamouli's Varanasi makes sense." "It also resolves the issue."
Title registration
Reddy's production house registered 'Vaaranasi' title earlier
As per the Telugu Film Producer's Council, Reddy's production house, Rama Bramha Hanuma Creations, had registered the title Vaaranasi on July 24, 2023. The rights were then renewed from June 24, 2025, to July 23, 2026. A document signed by the council and granting these rights to Reddy's banner was also leaked online amid the controversy. Rajamouli-Babu'sVaranasi will release in 2027.