‘Epic!!!!’: Karan Johar Hails Mahesh Babu’s Fierce Rudhra Look in SS Rajamouli’s Mythology-Epic ‘Varanasi’
Karan Johar Declares Mahesh Babu’s ‘Varanasi’ Look ‘Epic’, Crowns SS Rajamouli The Unrivaled Master
Indian cinema is currently buzzing with anticipation following the mega-reveal of the title and first look for SS Rajamouli’s next magnum opus, starring Superstar Mahesh Babu. The film, now officially titled ‘Varanasi’, has already set unprecedented benchmarks for scale, mythology, and cinematic ambition. Amidst the thunderous applause from fans and the film fraternity alike, Bollywood’s influential director and producer, Karan Johar, has weighed in with an emphatic declaration, calling the unveiled look and the project itself nothing short of ‘Epic!!!!’, and crowning SS Rajamouli as “the one and only.”
Johar’s reaction, shared on his official Instagram Stories, has amplified the excitement surrounding the film, underscoring the universal appeal and reverence that Rajamouli commands across all language barriers in Indian cinema.
The Grand Unveiling: Introducing Rudhra in ‘Varanasi’
The highly-anticipated project, tentatively referred to as ‘SSMB29’ or ‘Globe Trotter’ for years, finally revealed its true identity at a colossal event in Hyderabad. The title, ‘Varanasi,’ hints at the deep spiritual and historical roots of the narrative, aligning with SS Rajamouli’s history of weaving intricate, epic tales.
The main highlight of the evening was the stunning first look of Mahesh Babu as the central character, Rudhra. The visual, which has since gone viral, showcases the superstar in a fierce, bloodied avatar, wielding a powerful trident (trisulam), and riding a magnificent bull. This dramatic tableau is set against the timeless silhouette of Kashi’s ancient temples, instantly establishing the film’s blend of raw action and profound mythology.
Karan Johar’s Two-Word, Million-Dollar Praise
Karan Johar, who played a pivotal role in presenting Rajamouli’s Baahubali franchise to the Hindi market—turning it into a monumental, pan-Indian success—has always shared an immense respect for the visionary filmmaker. His immediate and enthusiastic reaction to the ‘Varanasi’ glimpse further solidifies the industry’s faith in Rajamouli’s ability to deliver a global phenomenon.
Sharing the post of the first look, Johar’s caption was brief but powerful: “Epic!!!! The one and only SS Rajamouli.” This simple statement encapsulates the widespread sentiment that Rajamouli operates on a cinematic level far beyond his peers, making his projects mandatory viewing for cinephiles across the globe.
A Saga of Myth, Time Travel, and Ramayana
The teaser for ‘Varanasi’ provided more than just a character reveal; it offered a glimpse into a narrative spanning centuries and continents, hinting at a truly global epic. The announcement video showed an asteroid falling to Earth, with fragments scattering across diverse locations like Varanasi, Antarctica, and Africa, strongly suggesting a time-travel or multi-era storyline.
At the event, SS Rajamouli shed more light on the film’s mythological core, confirming that ‘Varanasi’ will have a deep, devotional touch. Most notably, he announced that Mahesh Babu will also be seen in a spectacular sequence as Lord Rama. Rajamouli’s lifelong dream to adapt parts of the Ramayana and Mahabharata is finally coming to fruition, and his praise for Mahesh Babu was profound: “Mahesh has the charm of Krishna, but the calmness of Rama.”
The Global Cast Roster
True to its massive scale, ‘Varanasi’ boasts an impressive, pan-Indian and potentially global cast. Joining Mahesh Babu are two other colossal names:
- Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini, a role that marks her return to a major Indian production after several years.
- Prithviraj Sukumaran as the formidable antagonist, Kumbha.
The music, of course, is handled by the Oscar-winning maestro, MM Keeravaani, ensuring that the film’s soundscape is as grand as its visuals.
Industry Reactions: Calling it the ‘Avatar ka Baap’
Karan Johar was not the only prominent figure to hail the teaser. The reaction from the industry has been overwhelmingly positive, with several filmmakers and actors expressing their excitement:
- Prashanth Neel (KGF, Salaar Director): He lauded the director and actor, saying, “Take a bow, @ssrajamouli sir! @urstrulyMahesh looks absolutely charming. Super excited ✨.”
- Brahmaji: The Telugu actor had one of the most colourful reactions, exclaiming on social media, “OMG… Avatar ki baap hi…” This comparison to James Cameron’s visually spectacular franchise highlights the perceived quality of Rajamouli’s production design and VFX.
These reactions, from diverse corners of Indian cinema, solidify ‘Varanasi’ as the most anticipated film currently in production, reinforcing Rajamouli’s stature as a director who transcends regional cinema to deliver projects of global significance.
Technical Brilliance and Mammoth Scale
Known for his meticulous planning and technical innovation, SS Rajamouli has confirmed that ‘Varanasi’ is being made in the Premium Large Scale Format, specifically filmed for IMAX screens. This commitment to technical excellence ensures a viewing experience that will be truly immersive and spectacle-driven. The director and his team have faced monumental challenges, including shooting a 60-day sequence involving the Ramayana episode, a segment he believes will be one of the most memorable portions of the film.
The Road to Sankranti 2027
With the title and first look now officially announced, the countdown to ‘Varanasi’ has begun in earnest. The film is officially slated for a grand worldwide release during the auspicious Sankranti 2027 window. This release date promises a festive box-office frenzy, allowing the film to capitalize on the holiday season and its inherent global appeal.
As the world awaits more glimpses of Mahesh Babu’s Rudhra and Lord Rama, Karan Johar’s ‘Epic’ stamp of approval serves as the ultimate seal of quality and anticipation. ‘Varanasi’ is not just a film; it is being positioned as a cultural event—a cinematic journey into the depths of Indian mythology reimagined by the master storyteller, SS Rajamouli.
FAQs: Your Quick Guide to the ‘Varanasi’ Epic
Q1: What is the official title of SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu’s film?
A: The official title of the film is ‘Varanasi’. It was previously referred to as ‘SSMB29’ or ‘Globe Trotter’.
Q2: Why did Karan Johar call Mahesh Babu’s look ‘Epic’?
A: Karan Johar praised the first look and teaser of the film on his Instagram Stories, writing, “Epic!!!! The one and only SS Rajamouli.” He was reacting to Mahesh Babu’s fierce and dramatic avatar as the character Rudhra, who is seen bloodied, riding a bull, and holding a trident against a mythological backdrop.
Q3: Who are the main cast members of ‘Varanasi’?
A: The main cast includes Mahesh Babu as the protagonist Rudhra (and Lord Rama in a special sequence), Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist Kumbha.
Q4: When is SS Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’ scheduled to release?
A: The film is scheduled for a grand worldwide release on Sankranti 2027.
Q5: What is the plot or genre of the film?
A: ‘Varanasi’ is touted as a mythological-epic with elements of fantasy and time travel. It features a grand narrative that spans different eras and global locations, with a confirmed mythological connection to the Ramayana. The story involves an asteroid collision and fragments landing across the world, suggesting a complex, multi-era plot.
Q6: What does the first look of Mahesh Babu (Rudhra) signify?
A: The first look of Mahesh Babu as Rudhra shows him in a warrior-like, blood-drenched state, wielding a trident and riding a bull. This imagery strongly hints at a connection to Hindu deities, possibly an avatar of Lord Shiva (as Rudhra is one of his names) or a powerful ancient figure, setting the stage for an intense, mythologically-rooted action epic.
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