SS Rajamouli’s much-awaited Varanasi is progressing at a brisk pace, and fans have been eagerly anticipating a special update on Mahesh Babu’s birthday. However, instead of a glimpse or teaser, the makers surprised audiences by unveiling two exclusive stills from the film.
The newly released frames feature Mahesh Babu in a relaxed yet intriguing avatar as Rudhra. Sharing the stills, Rajamouli described Rudhra as a man born with a purpose far greater than himself, carrying a destiny he never chose. The filmmaker also highlighted the character’s wit, vulnerability and fierce nature, while praising Mahesh for effortlessly bringing out both the strength and fragility of Rudhra.
The latest stills were reportedly captured during the film’s Africa schedule, with the team shooting across spectacular locations around Kilimanjaro and the Maasai Mara. Rajamouli noted that the grandeur of these landscapes was so immense that even the film’s 1.43:1 IMAX frame could barely contain their scale.
Interestingly, the makers adopted a similar promotional strategy for Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ birthday, releasing exclusive stills rather than a major video asset. While fans were hoping for fresh footage featuring Mahesh Babu this time, the new images have only intensified curiosity surrounding the ambitious project.
Produced by KL Narayana and SS Karthikeya, Varanasi stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead roles. Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani is handling the music for the film, which is slated for a grand worldwide release on April 7, 2027.
