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Varanasi: I love my villains more: Rajamouli’s epic reply stuns Mahesh Babu

Why does S S Rajamouli love his villains more? Mahesh Babu shares a surprising moment that he shared with the Varanasi director

Varanasi: I love my villains more: Rajamouli’s epic reply stuns Mahesh Babu
Mahesh Babu on Rajamouli

Last Updated: 10.36 AM, Feb 04, 2026

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SS Rajamouli has once again made headlines with his new film Varanasi. The makers revealed the release date of the film in a very interesting way. The hoardings of the release date were erected in the city of Varanasi, and it created a massive sensation. The epic adventure thriller is all set to hit the screens on April 7, 2027.

Varanasi promotions kick of in style

Rajamouli and his team have started promotions well in advance and have given interviews to Hollywood media. Several snippets from these videos have gone viral on social media, and one particular clip where Mahesh Babu talks about Rajamouli’s witty answer has now become a major talking point.

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Mahesh Babu reveals Rajamouli’s unexpected answer on Varanasi

Mahesh Babu revealed that after signing the film, he messaged Rajamouli saying, “Sir, I love your heroes in all your films.” The star hero added that Rajamouli’s reply surprised him. Rajamouli replied, “Thank you, sir, but I love my villains even more.” Mahesh Babu said that he was taken aback after reading such a reply and recalled the incident while looking back.

Priyanka Chopra in Varanasi
Priyanka Chopra in Varanasi

If one observes closely, villains play a key role in all SS Rajamouli films. The way Rajamouli highlights his villains is unmatched. Take Rana Daggubati, for example. He played the main villain in the Baahubali series and was a major factor in the film’s outcome. The way Rana pulled off the negative role as a ruthless king impressed everyone.

Prithviraj Sukumaran on his role in Varanasi

Similarly, Prithviraj Sukumaran, the Malayalam superstar, is playing the main villain in Varanasi. Rajamouli has made him a handicapped character, and he will be seen in a wheelchair-bound role with special abilities. A source close to the unit revealed that Prithviraj Sukumaran’s role is the best villain Rajamouli has ever created to date.

Varanasi title
Varanasi title

During an interview, Prithviraj revealed that he was taken aback after hearing about his character in Varanasi. “I was shocked to hear the way my character was designed. I was surprised by the audacity with which Rajamouli even thought of something this big,” said Prithviraj Sukumaran.

Varanasi being filmed for IMAX screens

Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays the female lead in Varanasi, which has music composed by MM Keeravani. The adventure thriller is being filmed for IMAX screens, and massive money is being pumped into the project. Post-production work is happening in various countries, with a huge budget allocated for the same.

As for the shooting, over 50% of the film has been wrapped up. A major schedule is currently underway in Hyderabad, where a key action sequence is being shot. 

Varanasi new release date
Varanasi new release date

Rajamouli is leaving no stone unturned to make this film a global hit. That is why he has invited international media to interview the cast and crew of Varanasi, through which many interesting aspects of the film are emerging. Stay tuned for more updates on Varanasi.

Varanasi FAQs

Q. When will Mahesh Babu's Varanasi release?

A. As per the update, Varanasi will hit the screens on April 7, 2027

Q. Where to stream Mahesh Babu's Varanasi?

A. Though there is a massive demand, the film is yet to lock its OTT platform

Q. What is Varanasai all about?

A. The film is an adventure thriller about Lord Ram, told in a modern and action-packed avatar

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