Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead roles, is being directed by SS Rajamouli in his magnum opus. The RRR director, who has been working with the cast for several months, shared with Variety how Rudra’s portrayal in the film didn’t surprise him, but instead it was the actor’s dedication to his work that surprised him.
SS Rajamouli shares his thoughts on working with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra for Varanasi
Sharing his thoughts on working with South superstar Mahesh Babu, SS Rajamouli did not hold back in praising. Having seen his magic in cinema over the years, the actor has given many hit films, a fact that is no secret to the filmmaker. Therefore, it was not his acting but his commitment to his art that surprised him. The director shared, “As an actor, I’m not too surprised (about Mahesh Babu) because I’ve been watching his films for a very long time. I know what he’s capable of doing.”
Explaining how it was his work ethic that kept him going, he revealed, “He comes to the office without his phone. He keeps the phone in his car and steps into the office. During the shoot, I never saw him coming to the set with a phone. Only after he comes back to the car does he take his phone.” This detail impressed the 52-year-old man to such an extent that he has now decided not to touch his phone while he is with his family.
Priyanka Chopra, on the other hand, is making a comeback to Indian cinema after 6 years, flying in and out of Hyderabad and New York for filming and managing her personal life. Recalling what it was like when the crew went to Africa, the Baahubali: The Epic director shared that the actress’s philanthropy had crossed oceans, with locals seeking her out for photos. He said, “I thought, wow, this woman is something. She has achieved a lot on her own and my respect for her grew.”
Meanwhile, Mahesh Babu will play dual roles as Rudra and Ram in the film, Priyanka Chopra Jonas will play the role of Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran will play Kumbha. Varanasi is all set to release in theaters on April 7, 2027.
Also read: SS Rajamouli ‘doubted’ whether Priyanka Chopra would work for Varanasi, director reveals if the film will have 2 parts