SS Rajamouli Sets Sights on Cultivating Global Fan Base for Indian Cinema
Renowned filmmaker SS Rajamouli is preparing to make a significant impact on the international box office with his upcoming project, the highly anticipated film 'Varanasi', scheduled for release in 2027. In a recent candid interview, the director shared his ambitious plans to foster a worldwide and devoted fan community for Indian films, drawing inspiration from global phenomena like K-Pop and Japanese anime.
Building a Dedicated Following Similar to K-Pop and Anime
Rajamouli expressed his desire to create a robust fan base for Indian cinema that mirrors the passionate followings of K-Pop and Japanese anime. "I want to have a good amount of fan base for Indian cinema, like how you have for K-Pop or how you have for Japanese anime, that has a strong fan base across the world, not just in Korea and Japan, but across the world," he stated. This vision underscores his commitment to elevating Indian films on the global stage, aiming for cultural resonance that transcends borders.
Inspired by the Success of 'Demon Slayer' in India
The director highlighted the impressive performance of the Japanese anime franchise 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba The Movie: Infinity Castle' in India as a source of inspiration. Rajamouli noted, "I was so thrilled when the 'Demon Slayer' film released here in India. The film opened to housefulls. We don't have successful animation films here in India, so that's how the world is opening up, that's how I want the world to open up for Indian cinema as well." The anime earned over Rs 66 crore at the Indian box office, securing its position as the 5th highest-grossing foreign film of 2025 in the country, demonstrating the potential for international content to thrive in the Indian market.
Reflecting on the Universal Appeal of 'RRR'
Looking back at his 2022 blockbuster 'RRR', which garnered international acclaim and commercial success, Rajamouli emphasized the importance of universal storytelling. "To make a story universal and base it on very sincere emotions, it will just appeal to everyone. That is my belief. But having a belief is one thing; to see it happen is another," he remarked. This philosophy has guided his filmmaking approach, aiming to create narratives that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide.
Key Takeaways from Rajamouli's Vision
- Rajamouli's upcoming film 'Varanasi' is set for a 2027 release, with plans to captivate global audiences.
- He aims to build a fan base for Indian cinema comparable to the dedicated followings of K-Pop and Japanese anime.
- The success of 'Demon Slayer' in India, earning over Rs 66 crore, serves as a model for international appeal.
- His previous work, 'RRR', exemplifies the power of universal stories rooted in sincere emotions.
- Rajamouli's strategy focuses on leveraging emotional storytelling to bridge cultural gaps and attract a worldwide audience.
As Rajamouli gears up for the release of 'Varanasi', his insights reveal a strategic focus on expanding the reach of Indian cinema. By learning from global successes and emphasizing universal themes, he is poised to not only entertain but also cultivate a loyal international fan base, potentially transforming the landscape of Indian film on the world stage.
