Varanasi: SS Rajamouli reveals being atheist, makes comments on Hanuman; angered fans ask why make films on Hinduism, and ‘milk our mythology’?
Varanasi: A controversial moment arose when Rajamouli revealed his atheism, sparking debate given his films' strong ties to Hindu mythology.
Last Updated: 01.45 PM, Nov 16, 2025
The SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu film launch happened as a gala event on Saturday, with the title revealed as Varanasi. Needless to say, the film’s title teaser was astounding, with fans eagerly waiting for the release of the film. However, the event, which was livestreamed on JioHotstar (OTTplay Premium) and had taken place in Hyderabad, had met with some technical glitches. But what really stayed longer was Rajamouli’s shocking revelation that he does not believe in god, leaving fans questioning and confused on why he continues to make films that milk Hindu mythology.
Varanasi: Rajamouli reveals himself to be atheist
The Globetrotting event took place on Saturday, and the much-anticipated title teaser of the Mahesh Babu-Rajamouli film was revealed on stage. On stage, Rajamouli candidly said that he does not believe in God. “When my father talked about Hanuman, and suggested to rely on his blessings for success, I got angry so much,” Rajamouli said.
However, this statement did not sit well with a section of the audience, given Rajamouli’s films reek of religious and mythological references from Hinduism. In fact, the filmmaker also stated that Varanasi will draw a connection to the Hindu epic Ramayana and that Mahesh Babu’s character symbolises Lord Ram. His previous films, RRR and Baahubali, were too inclined towards Hindu mythology, leaving fans frustrated about how he goes on to ‘milk the mythology’ for his benefit.
“Is he using/blaming Hinduism only to sell his films? Thoughts?’ one person asked, while the other wrote, “Self proclaimed atheist Rajamouli garu while milking Hindu mythology.” Many fans were left irked about how, despite not being a believer, Rajamouli makes movies based on Hindu deities, and his comments during the Varanasi event have hurt Hindu sentiments. On the other hand, a few have also come in support of the filmmaker for being candid about his beliefs.
Varanasi: A time-trotting, globe-trotting adventure
Varanasi, also starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is a magnum opus in the making.
The film has music by MM Keeravani and is slated for a theatrical release for summer 2027. The film marks the first time Mahesh Babu will be collaborating with filmmaker SS Rajamouli. With Priyanka returning to Indian cinema with Varanasi, and Prithviraj as antagonist, hopes are high on the pan-Indian flick.
FAQs
Q. When will the first look of Mahesh Babu-Rajamouli be out?
A. The first look of the Mahesh Babu-Rajamouli film was out on November 15, 2025
Q. Who is playing the female lead in Mahesh Babu's next?
A. Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays the female lead in Mahesh Babu's next, tentatively titled Globetrotter.
Q. When will Vilayath Buddha release?
A. Prithviraj Sukumaran's Vilayath Buddha will release on November 21.