Varanasi: Prithviraj Sukumaran spills beans on his Kumbha role, terms him a very ‘dangerous man who is…’
Varanasi movie: A poster of Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha, locked to a wheelchair, was revealed earlier, taking the internet by storm.
Last Updated: 11.52 AM, Feb 04, 2026
The Telugu movie Varanasi, starring actors Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, has locked its release date for 2027. But such is the hype around the SS Rajamouli magnum opus that the movie is already making buzz at a global level, even over a year before its release. In an interview with Collider Interviews, Malayalam actor Prithviraj revealed some titbits about his role Kumbha, terming him a very dangerous man who is just physically incapacitated.
What is Prithivraj Sukumaran’s role in Varanasi
Actor-filmmaker Prithivraj Sukumaran turns a vile villain for his role in the upcoming movie Varanasi, named Kumbha. Earlier, a photo of Prithviraj as Kumbha, locked to a wheelchair, was revealed, taking the internet by storm. Now in the recent interview, Prithviraj said the wheelchair is not just a prop but an extension of how Kumbha’s mind works.
“He is a very dangerous man who is just physically incapacitated. And his mind works in very very unpredictable, dangerous ways. And the wheelchair is set up in a way that directly connects to his thoughts,” explained the State Award winning actor.
When will Varanasi release
Varanasi is set to release in theatres for April 2027, the makers have said, but did not give an exact date. Last year, the team had held a huge event to announce the movie title, and introduce its lead cast and their roles. Telugu star Mahesh Babu plays the lead role of Rudra, and his character poster showed the actor on a charging bull.
Priyanka Chopra, who is making a comeback to Indian cinema after a hiatus, plays the female lead Mandakani, while Prithviraj is the antagonist Kumbha.
On the other hand, Prithviraj’s last movie to hit theatres was the Malayalam flick Vilaayath Budha in November 2025. But the film ended as a dampener at teh box office and is yet to make its digital release.
Varanasi movie FAQs
Q. Has the Varanasi movie been released?
A. The Varanasi movie has not been released. The Mahesh Babu-Rajamouli film will release in theatres in April 2027.
Q. Q. Who is playing the female lead in Mahesh Babu's next?
A. Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays the female lead in the film.
Q. Is Prithviraj the villain in the Varanasi movie?
A. Yes, Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the villain, Kumbha, in the Varanasi movie.