Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli's upcoming action-adventure epic 'Varanasi' has set a global theatrical release for April 7, 2027. Starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film promises a sprawling story across continents and time periods. This follows the international success of Rajamouli's 'RRR,' which won an Oscar in 2023.
S.S. Rajamouli, director of the globally acclaimed 'RRR,' is set to helm 'Varanasi,' described in publicity materials as a globe-trotting adventure akin to 'Indiana Jones' and 'James Bond.' The film features Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu as protagonist Rudhra, Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as antagonist Kumbha. It reunites Rajamouli with Oscar-winning composer M.M. Keeravani, who earned the Academy Award for best original song 'Naatu Naatu' from 'RRR.'
The story spans thousands of years and unfolds across multiple continents, from Antarctica and Africa to the Indian city of Varanasi. First-look footage was unveiled in November 2025, showcasing the film's ambitious scope that reportedly surpasses even 'RRR.' Unlike 'RRR,' which opened in India in March 2022 and later gained traction in the U.S., leading to its status as the fifth-highest grossing Indian film, 'Varanasi' will launch simultaneously worldwide on April 7, 2027.
Produced by K.L. Narayana and S.S. Karthikeya under Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, the project highlights Mahesh Babu's two-decade career in Telugu cinema, including hits like 'Srimanthudu' and 'Bharat Ane Nenu.' Chopra Jonas brings her cross-cultural appeal from Bollywood and Hollywood, while Sukumaran adds pan-Indian versatility from recent roles in 'Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire' and 'The Goat Life.' This release positions 'Varanasi' as one of 2027's major international films from India.
