Priyanka Chopra Makes a Grand Return to Indian Cinema in SS Rajamouli's Epic 'Varanasi'
In a major development for Indian cinema, global superstar Priyanka Chopra is set to return to the big screen in the highly anticipated SS Rajamouli directorial 'Varanasi'. The magnum opus, which will explore multiple timelines, features Chopra starring opposite Telugu cinema icon Mahesh Babu. As the film is currently in production, Chopra recently shared her exhilarating and intense experience shooting action-adventure sequences in the wilds of Kenya, Africa.
A 'Crazy' Shooting Experience Amidst Wildebeest Migration
During a recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Priyanka Chopra revealed the extraordinary circumstances under which key scenes were filmed. The team shot amidst a massive herd of migrating wildebeests, an experience Chopra described as both awe-inspiring and surreal.
"I was filming in Africa recently in Kenya, for this Indian movie I am doing called 'Varanasi'. And we shot with wildebeests. In the middle of them. Me and my co-actor Mahesh Babu were in the middle of these wildebeests that were all around us while they were migrating," Chopra recounted.
She elaborated on the profound impact of the moment, stating, "It's like the coolest thing I have ever seen but when you see their faces and for how many years, versions of them have existed. You feel the gravity when you see these animals in the wild. It's crazy." This immersive filming technique underscores Rajamouli's commitment to creating visually stunning and authentic cinematic experiences.
Mahesh Babu Recalls the Intimidating First Day on Set
Earlier, Mahesh Babu also spoke about the same challenging schedule during an interview with Discussing Film. The acclaimed actor admitted that the situation felt initially intimidating, with the presence of wild animals creating a tense atmosphere on the first day of shooting.
"It's something I will never forget. The first day of shooting in Africa right in the middle of these animals, we had to get down from the vehicles and had to walk. I usually lead from the front, but on that particular day I was a bit hesitant," Babu confessed.
He shared a memorable moment from the set, revealing, "There were these walkie-talkies, and I could hear (Rajamouli) sir's voice saying, 'PC (Priyanka Chopra) I want you to walk (in) front,' and I was like... yes." Despite the initial apprehension, the actor noted how the environment quickly became immersive. "It was a bit intimidating with all those wild animals but after 5 or 10 minutes you wouldn't see the cameras, you wouldn't see anybody. It's just us in the middle of the wildlands," he added, highlighting the unique bond formed through this demanding shoot.
Star-Studded Cast and Global Release Plans
The film 'Varanasi' boasts a formidable ensemble cast, further elevated by the inclusion of acclaimed actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, who is set to portray the main villain. This multi-starrer project is poised to be a cinematic spectacle, blending high-octane action with deep narrative layers across different timelines.
Produced on a grand scale, the film is scheduled for a global theatrical release on April 7, 2027. The announcement has generated significant buzz among fans and industry observers, who eagerly await this collaboration between some of the biggest names in Indian and global entertainment.
The return of Priyanka Chopra to Indian cinema, combined with SS Rajamouli's visionary direction and Mahesh Babu's star power, positions 'Varanasi' as one of the most anticipated films of the decade. The behind-the-scenes stories from the Kenyan shoot only amplify the excitement, promising a film that is as daring in its execution as it is ambitious in its scope.
