With many recent films being made as two-part projects or sequels - such as Baahubali, Pushpa, Salaar, Kalki, and the recent Dhurandhar - there were strong speculations that Varanasi would also be released in two parts.
The film, directed by top filmmaker SS Rajamouli and starring Mahesh Babu in the lead role, had been widely rumoured to follow a similar format.
However, Rajamouli has now put an end to all such speculation. He confirmed that Varanasi is planned as a single film and will not have a second part. The director clarified this during his recent interactions with a few international YouTube channels.
Prithviraj on Kumbha in Varanasi: 'The wheelchair is an extension of who he is'Rajamouli's projects are always mounted on a grand scale, and Varanasi is no exception. He recently unveiled the first glimpse of the film at a special event held at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. A massive screen was set up to showcase the three-minute video, and media from across the world, including international outlets, were invited to the event.
According to some channels, these conversations were recorded in November 2025. Following the grand event, Rajamouli, along with the lead cast - Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran -interacted with international media.
Varanasi: SS Rajamouli confirms April 2027 release of Mahesh Babu headlinerDuring one of these conversations, Rajamouli clearly stated that Varanasi will be a standalone film with no sequel. He also revealed that the runtime is expected to be around three hours to three hours and fifteen minutes. In the film, Mahesh Babu plays the character Rudra, Priyanka Chopra essays the role of Mandakini, while Prithviraj Sukumaran appears as Kumbha.
Rajamouli also confirmed that Mahesh Babu portrays Lord Ram in the film. The actor himself spoke about the role at the event, sharing details about the extensive preparation he undertook for the character.
Priyanka Chopra: It is terrifying fans have figured out some Easter eggs in VaranasiProduced by KL Narayana and SS Karthikeya, Varanasi is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on April 7, 2027. The film blends mythology, time travel, and action, promising a visually spectacular cinematic experience.

