Rajamouli–Mahesh Babu’s ‘Varanasi’ Eyes Global IMAX Release Amid Hollywood Competition

Director S.S. Rajamouli and superstar Mahesh Babu are collaborating on the highly anticipated global adventure film Varanasi, which is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027. The production team is aiming to complete principal photography by October this year while ensuring the film meets the highest technical and visual standards. Rajamouli is reportedly designing the project specifically for IMAX and Premium Large Format (PLF) screens to deliver an immersive cinematic experience.

However, Varanasi is expected to face stiff competition in the international market as major Hollywood releases, including Godzilla x Kong: Supernova and Panic Carefully, are also expected to arrive during the same period. Since Hollywood studios typically secure IMAX screens well in advance, industry observers believe premium screen availability could become a key challenge. It remains to be seen how Rajamouli and his team navigate this competition to maximise the film's global reach.