Well-known South Indian star Prakash Raj, who has a crucial role in director S. S. Rajamouli’s highly anticipated magnum opus ‘Varanasi,’ featuring Mahesh Babu in the lead, recently announced that he has completed a schedule for the film and is eager to dive into the next phase of production.
Expressing his excitement on his X timeline, the versatile actor shared, “Wrapped up a wonderful schedule of #Varanasi .. a joy to the hungry actor within me .. thank you @ssrajamouli @urstrulyMahesh @PrithviOfficial @priyankachopra. It was exhilarating to work with you all .. can’t wait to resume the next schedule.”
This film has generated immense enthusiasm among fans and film enthusiasts, particularly after the title reveal event, which heightened interest levels significantly.
The film, previously dubbed ‘GlobeTrotter,’ had its title disclosed during a grand event at Ramoji Film City. This occasion attracted thousands of excited fans in November, marking one of the largest live gatherings in the Indian entertainment industry.
The event featured an impressive stage, boasting a height of 100 feet and a 130-foot wide screen, making it one of the biggest setups for a film event.
During the event, Rajamouli shared insights about a sequence they had filmed, indicating it might be among the most memorable moments in his extensive collection of films. He stated, “From my childhood, I have often said that I hold the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha in high regard. Creating a Mahabharatha has always been my dream project. While working on this film, I did not anticipate that I would be shooting an essential sequence from the Ramayana. However, I felt elated while writing each scene. On the first day, witnessing Mahesh dressed as Rama during a photoshoot gave me goosebumps.”
Rajamouli further detailed their experience, noting, “We had a fantastic time shooting for this episode over 60 days, which concluded recently. Each day presented challenges, as every sub-episode in this massive sequence was like a cinematic experience in itself. It required fresh planning, but we managed to overcome all hurdles and complete the sequence. I believe it will stand out as one of the most memorable in my career.”
The film’s makers have already unveiled the characters and looks of Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj, and Priyanka Chopra. Mahesh Babu stars as Rudhra, Prithviraj takes on the role of the antagonist Kumbha, and Priyanka Chopra portrays Mandakini.
An intriguing aspect of ‘Varanasi’ is that 95 percent of the film’s African scenes were shot in Kenya, as revealed by Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia W Mudavadi.