Hyderabad, India – The title of S.S. Rajamouli's next epic, "Varanasi," starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, was revealed on Saturday at a grand "GlobeTrotter" event held at Ramoji Film City. The film, Rajamouli's first collaboration with Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, promises a globetrotting adventure with a touch of Indian mythology.

The event drew approximately 50,000 enthusiastic fans who were treated to a live spectacle and the first trailer of the film. The trailer offers glimpses of stunning visuals spanning different locations and time periods, including Antarctica, Varanasi, Kenya, and even the Threthayuga. It hints at a mythical plot that transcends both geographical borders and time itself.

Rajamouli revealed that a significant sequence in "Varanasi" draws inspiration from the Ramayana, an epic he has always dreamed of adapting. He shared that Mahesh Babu will be seen as Lord Rama in key portions of the film. According to sources, these sequences will transport audiences hundreds of years back in time, where Mahesh Babu, as Lord Rama, confronts mighty rakshasas.

The director recounted his experience of seeing Mahesh Babu in the getup of Lord Rama for the first time. "On the first day, when Mahesh came in Lord Rama's get-up for the photoshoot, I got goosebumps," Rajamouli said. "Mahesh has the charm of Krishna, but the calmness of Rama". He further added, "We shot this sequence for 60 days, and we completed it recently. Every single day was a challenge... I believe it will be one of the most memorable portions of the film".

A brief glimpse of Mahesh Babu in an epic Ramayana setting, wielding a bow and arrow, has already sent fans into a frenzy. Many are hailing it as one of the most powerful depictions of Lord Ram in modern cinema, with some referring to "Varanasi" as Rajamouli's own "Ramayana". Social media has been flooded with reactions, with fans expressing their excitement and anticipation for the film.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who plays the character Mandakini in the film, expressed her joy at being part of the project and praised her co-star, Mahesh Babu, as "incredible" and "legendary". Her first look, revealed earlier, showcases her in a yellow saree, holding a gun, hinting at a strong and intriguing character. Prithviraj Sukumaran will be seen as the main antagonist, Kumbha.

"Varanasi" is slated for a worldwide release in January 2027, coinciding with the festival of Sankranti. The film is produced by KL Narayana and SS Karthikeya.