‘Inside ‘Varanasi’ Globe Trotter event: Mahesh Babu’s trident, Priyanka’s desi glam and Prithviraj dazzle

The buzz for S.S. Rajamouli’s highly anticipated film Varanasi reached fever pitch on Sunday night as stars Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra lit up the grand title launch. Thousands of fans flocked to Ramoji Film City to witness the spectacle, which included a musical showcase of the film’s score.

The visionary director behind RRR and Baahubali officially revealed Varanasi, teasing a visually spectacular time-travel adventure inspired by Hindu mythology. Set in the spiritual city of Varanasi, the film is slated for a 2027 release in IMAX format.

Marking her comeback to Indian cinema, Priyanka Chopra Jonas stunned in a silk white-and-gold lehenga with statement jewellery.

Greeting fans with folded hands, she charmed the audience further by speaking in Telugu: “Thagala petteddama? (Should we set fire?)”

Her presence quickly went viral on social media, and she praised the cast, composer M.M. Keeravani, and Rajamouli, calling him a “visionary.”

Fans went wild as Mahesh Babu made a striking entrance in a brown jacket over a beige kurta, accessorised with a trishul-and-Nandi necklace hinting at the film’s mythological undertones. Joined by his daughter Sitara, the moment added a heartwarming family touch. His first look as Rudra—a trident-wielding warrior riding a fierce bull against Kashi’s ancient temples—sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Joining the leads, Prithviraj Sukumaran takes on the antagonist role of Kumbha. The nearly four-minute teaser hints at a time-travel narrative rich in mythology, while the lavish launch—with lights, fireworks, and replicas of Varanasi city—gave fans a festival-like experience.

Known for high-octane action, mythic storytelling, and grand visuals, Tollywood has gained worldwide attention thanks to Rajamouli. RRR earned international acclaim, including an Oscar for Best Original Song, while Mahesh Babu is now hailed as a global star, reflecting Telugu cinema’s growing international reach.

Varanasi will be filmed in Premium Large Scale Format for IMAX, offering a fully immersive cinematic experience. Rajamouli also praised veteran actor Krishna, Mahesh Babu’s father, for pioneering innovations in Indian cinema.

The director revealed the meticulous efforts to prevent leaks. Despite tight security, a drone still managed to capture a shot from the film, highlighting the extensive work, resources, and care invested in protecting the project.

With its stellar cast, breathtaking visuals, and ambitious storytelling, Varanasi is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Indian films in recent years, generating excitement ahead of its Sankranti 2027 release.