Bigger, bolder, bolder: Prithviraj Sukumaran on Rajamouli’s Varanasi vision
Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran shares insights on his career and collaboration with director SS Rajamouli at the ‘Globetrotter’ event at Ramoji Rao Film City, Hyderabad, highlighting the importance of the project and the collective pride of the Telugu film community.
Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran addressed a large audience at the ‘Globetrotter’ event held at Ramoji Rao Film City in Hyderabad on November 25, marking a significant moment in his 25-year-old career across multiple film industries. The name of the film was said to be ‘Varanasi’. The event was attended by over 50,000 people, reflecting the growing anticipation for his upcoming film, and highlighting the unity and enthusiasm present in the Telugu cinema community. Sukumaran began his speech by commenting on the scale of the event, saying that despite his extensive experience, it was particularly special to speak in front of such a huge audience. He acknowledged the cultural importance of the Telugu language and expressed his appreciation for the local industry.
He expressed his gratitude towards music composer Keeravani, citing his contribution to Malayalam cinema and described it as an honor to be associated with him. Sukumaran said, “First of all, thank you Keeravani garu for the wonderful introduction of Kumbha (his character). I have grown up listening to the timeless classics you have created in Malayalam cinema, and it is an utmost honor to be associated with you.”
Throwing light on an important moment in his career, Sukumaran recalls his early relationship with director SS Rajamouli. He shared that while directing his own film a few years ago, he had received a message from Rajamouli which read: “Hi Prithvi, this is SS Rajamouli. The antagonist in my next film has come out very well, one of the best characters I have ever imagined. Would you be interested?” “Those were his exact words,” Sukumaran said.
Sukumaran described his reaction as restrained, saying that he replied, “Sure, sir,” but he admitted, “But I’m sure he sensed excitement in me.” This conversation set the stage for his later involvement in what he described as one of the most ambitious projects of his career.
He described his first meeting with Rajamouli in the director’s office with the famous German Shepherd and charming narration style. Sukumaran compared his reaction to that of a child receiving a new comic book, capturing the sense of awe and excitement he experienced upon learning of the scale and ambition of the project. He noted how Rajamouli’s vision constantly pushed the boundaries of Indian filmmaking, which left a lasting impression on him.
Elaborating on the challenges and expectations associated with the role, Sukumaran said, “I think working in an SS Rajamouli film is on every actor’s bucket list, but I had no idea that he would trust me with one of his most complex and physically challenging roles to date. Thanks to that trust and the completely torturous shooting process, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
He also paid tribute to his colleagues, remembering the influence of their earlier works, mentioning Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra. Sukumaran said, “Mahesh sir, if I remember correctly, the first Telugu film I saw in theaters was ‘Pokkiri’. From there, the legacy you have created and the superstar you are today, this film deserves you, and you deserve this film. Priyanka, your performance in ‘Barfi’!” Remains one of the best in this country. It has been a privilege to see Mandakini come alive through you so closely.
Concluding his address, Sukumaran pointed to the collective aspiration behind the film. He appealed to the audience, “Our aspirations are high, but to achieve them we have to believe in you. This is SS Rajamouli and his team once again taking Indian cinema to the global stage, this time bigger, bolder and bolder than ever before.”
‘Varanasi’ is scheduled to release in theaters during the summer of 2027.