SS Rajamouli has delivered a major production update on Varanasi, confirming that around 80% of the film has been shot and its biggest action sequences are already complete. The director also called the Mahesh Babu-led epic the first non-English film to be shot entirely in IMAX, placing the Telugu production in a rare global filmmaking category.
The story will travel from Varanasi to Antarctica and Africa, move backwards to ancient Rome, and then return to the holy city. Rajamouli said the remaining shoot has resumed in Hyderabad, while editing and visual-effects work continue alongside filming. Varanasi is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on 7 April 2027.
What Did SS Rajamouli Reveal About Varanasi?
In an interview with European magazine Tsounami, Rajamouli said work on the story began after RRR in 2022. Nearly four-and-a-half years later, the team has filmed about 80% of the project. The larger IMAX action portions have been completed, leaving smaller scenes and connecting passages to be captured before the planned wrap around Dasara.
Key updates shared by the filmmaker include:
- Around 80% of the shoot is complete.
- Major large-scale IMAX action scenes are finished.
- The remaining schedule is underway in Hyderabad.
- Editing and visual-effects work are happening simultaneously.
- The film travels across continents and several historical periods.
Rajamouli explained that completed sequences are edited quickly and passed to the visual-effects teams, allowing multiple departments to work at once. This production method is important for a film filled with creatures, ancient worlds, massive environments and time-spanning action. The latest details were reported in NDTV’s Varanasi production update.
Why Is The Entirely IMAX Claim Such A Big Step?
Rajamouli’s statement has attracted attention because most Indian films released in IMAX are formatted or remastered for the premium screens after filming. Varanasi has been promoted from the start as a “Filmed For IMAX” production, with footage prepared for the taller 1.43:1 presentation.
The official IMAX 1.43 trailer gave audiences an early view of the expanded frame. IMAX also shared the trailer through its official X account, making it the strongest social-media post for embedding within the article.
The timing also matches IMAX’s growing focus on India. In June 2026, the company announced three new IMAX with Laser locations through Asian Cinemas, including a return to Hyderabad. IMAX said India had 34 open locations and that its footprint had grown nearly 60% since 2020. The official IMAX expansion announcement directly mentioned Varanasi as an upcoming Indian Filmed For IMAX title.
Who Stars In Varanasi And What Is The Story?
Mahesh Babu plays Rudhra, while Priyanka Chopra Jonas appears as Mandakini. Prithviraj Sukumaran plays Kumbha, the principal antagonist, and Shruti Haasan is also linked to the ensemble. The project marks Rajamouli’s first film with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra’s first Indian theatrical release since The Sky Is Pink in 2019.
A recent first look at Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini described the character as a globe-travelling figure caught between Rudhra and Kumbha. The film reportedly moves across thousands of years, with settings including Antarctica, Africa and Varanasi. Rajamouli recreated parts of Varanasi in Hyderabad and also filmed in Kenya’s Maasai Mara with access granted by the Kenyan government.
The title launch had already hinted at mythological and time-travel elements. According to the Associated Press report on the unveiling, the first glimpse was shown before thousands of fans on a giant screen at Ramoji Film City.
What Happens Before The April 2027 Release?
The immediate task is completing the final 20% of filming and finishing a heavy post-production schedule. Since major action scenes are done, attention will shift towards performance scenes, transitions, sound work, dubbing, and visual-effects delivery.
The publicity campaign is also likely to grow after the newer character reveals. Priyanka Chopra’s Mandakini look has already renewed discussion around her return to Indian cinema, while the IMAX positioning has sparked debate over where Indian viewers can watch the full expanded format.
Varanasi arrives worldwide on 7 April 2027. Until then, its central selling point is clear: Rajamouli is combining Telugu cinema, mythology, time travel and premium large-format filmmaking for a release aimed far beyond India.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Will Varanasi Release?
Varanasi will release worldwide in theatres on 7 April 2027, including selected IMAX screens globally.
Who Plays The Lead Role In Varanasi?
Mahesh Babu leads the film as Rudhra, marking his first collaboration with director SS Rajamouli.
Is Priyanka Chopra Part Of Varanasi?
Yes, Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays Mandakini, a fierce character travelling across continents and different eras.
How Much Of Varanasi Has Been Shot?
Rajamouli says nearly 80% is complete, including the film’s biggest large-scale IMAX action sequences already.
Is Varanasi Entirely Shot For IMAX?
Rajamouli says it is the first non-English film shot entirely in IMAX for theatrical exhibition.
