Varanasi to the World: Mahesh Babu Transforms into a Globetrotting, Timetraveling Warrior

Superstar Mahesh Babu’s highly anticipated collaboration with visionary filmmaker SS Rajamouli was officially unveiled today. Titled Varanasi, the film’s first glimpse stunned audiences with its spectacular visuals and path-breaking concept.

The glimpse takes viewers through different eras—beginning in 512 CE in Varanasi, jumping to 2027 CE during the catastrophic fall of asteroid Shambhavi, and travelling through Antarctica, Africa, Vanaanchal, and eventually into Tretayugam (7200 BCE). It is here that the introduction of Rudra, played by Mahesh Babu, unfolds.

Packed with high-end VFX and world-building elements, the glimpse peaks with a powerful shot: Mahesh Babu as Rudra, holding a trishul and riding atop Nandi in an intense, divine avatar. With mythological undertones fused with time travel, Rajamouli seems to be crafting a genre-defining cinematic experience.

Mahesh Babu revealed that playing Rudra is a dream project for him, expressing his hope that the film will make fans worldwide proud. The team reportedly spent nearly a year perfecting the glimpse, hinting at the film’s massive production standards.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas stars as the female lead, while Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the primary antagonist. The film is produced by Durga Arts, and expectations are soaring for what could become one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious films.