SS Rajamouli, known for his blockbuster hits like Baahubali and RRR, is set to shake things up with his upcoming film, Varanasi. This new project marks a significant shift in his approach to filmmaking, as it will be released as a single film, departing from the trend of two-part narratives that he popularized.
In a recent interview with Screen Rant Plus, Rajamouli elaborated on the decision to keep Varanasi as a standalone film. He confirmed that while the idea of splitting the film into two parts was considered, it was ultimately dismissed. This suggests a focused narrative that will unfold within a single viewing.
Regarding the film’s length, Rajamouli mentioned that it would likely run around 200 minutes, equating to approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. This runtime aligns with his previous epics but is notable as it will be the first time since 2012’s Eega that he has produced a film without a sequel or division into parts.
Varanasi is co-written by Rajamouli’s father, Vijayendra Prasad, who has been integral to many of his projects. The film is backed by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, showcasing Rajamouli’s commitment to high-quality production values.
The cast features prominent actors, with Mahesh Babu playing the lead role of Rudhra, alongside Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini and Prithviraj Sukumaran portraying the antagonist, Kumbha. This diverse lineup presents an exciting combination of talent that audiences can look forward to.
Scheduled for release on April 7, 2027, Varanasi is anticipated to be a noteworthy addition to Rajamouli’s filmography and a potential new benchmark for Indian cinema. As he continues to evolve as a filmmaker, fans eagerly await how this venture will contribute to his legacy.