Priyanka Chopra's Grand Bollywood Return with SS Rajamouli's Varanasi
Global superstar Priyanka Chopra is poised for a spectacular return to Indian cinema after an absence of nearly six years. Her comeback vehicle is none other than the highly anticipated film 'Varanasi', directed by the visionary SS Rajamouli. The movie features her alongside Telugu cinema icon Mahesh Babu, with acclaimed actor Prithviraj Sukumaran rounding out the stellar cast.
Frenzied Anticipation and First Glimpse
Ever since the film's title was unveiled alongside a tantalizing first look at a grand event in Hyderabad, fans have been waiting with bated breath. The excitement surrounding Varanasi has reached fever pitch, marking one of the most awaited cinematic events in recent Indian film history.
Addressing the Rumors: Krrish 4 and Don 3 Speculations
Amidst this anticipation, swirling rumors have suggested Priyanka might be returning to two major franchises: 'Krrish 4' and 'Don 3'. While Don 3 was officially announced with Ranveer Singh in the lead role, reports later indicated the project stalled after the actor's exit following the success of 'Dhurandhar'. Subsequent speculation suggested director Farhan Akhtar might be shifting focus to other ventures like 'Jee Le Zaraa', initially announced with Priyanka, Katrina Kaif, and Alia Bhatt.
Simultaneously, buzz around Priyanka potentially reprising her role in the Krrish franchise has intensified. Last year, reports hinted that Hrithik Roshan might take over directorial duties from his father Rakesh Roshan, with Priyanka playing a pivotal part. These rumors gained further traction when Hrithik was spotted spending time with Priyanka and her husband Nick Jonas in the United States.
Priyanka's Cryptic Response and Mahesh Babu's Teasing Remark
During a recent interview with Screenrant, Priyanka was asked about these persistent rumors. She remained characteristically enigmatic, stating, "I don’t know if I can talk about either of them at all." This prompted her Varanasi co-star Mahesh Babu to playfully interject, "Then there’s something happening."
Reflecting on this phase of her career, Priyanka described it as particularly special. "This (Varanasi) is the first one that I’m doing after, like, almost six years in India, and just coming back," she shared. She further expressed openness to revisiting past roles and franchises, provided they offer compelling and engaging narratives that resonate with audiences.
Varanasi: A Mythological Epic with Global Ambitions
Meanwhile, the makers of Varanasi unveiled a visually stunning teaser in November, offering audiences their first proper glimpse into the film's universe. The teaser featured Mahesh Babu as Rudhra—bloodied, wielding a trishul, and mounted on a bull. Priyanka Chopra will be seen as Mandakini, while Prithviraj Sukumaran portrays the antagonist, Kumbha.
The film's narrative promises an epic, globe-trotting adventure. It centers on Rudhra's time-travel quest to retrieve a powerful cosmic artifact rooted in ancient mythology. Racing against time to prevent an impending catastrophe, the story fuses Indian mythological elements with large-scale action sequences. The plot spans multiple eras and continents, culminating in an epic, high-stakes clash between Rudhra and the formidable Kumbha.
Awaiting Official Confirmations and Future Projects
While the excitement for Varanasi continues to build, official confirmations regarding Priyanka's involvement in Krrish 4 or the revival of Don 3 remain pending. The industry and fans alike are keenly watching for any announcements that might shed light on these potential blockbuster projects.
Priyanka Chopra's return to Indian cinema with a director of SS Rajamouli's caliber signals a major moment for Bollywood and Indian cinema at large. It represents a confluence of star power, directorial vision, and grand storytelling that has the potential to captivate audiences worldwide.
