Priyanka Chopra’s Special Request to SS Rajamouli for ‘Varanasi’ Brings Mahesh Babu On Board

Mumbai, Feb 04 : Priyanka Chopra is set to return to Indian cinema with SS Rajamouli’s ambitious project Varanasi, and an unusual request reportedly helped shape the film’s creative direction. Before signing on, the actor asked the filmmaker to include a dance number, saying she missed performing to music in Indian films and wanted that connection with audiences again. Rajamouli agreed, and the decision soon expanded into multiple large-scale song sequences featuring co-star Mahesh Babu.

The film marks Priyanka’s first collaboration with Rajamouli and her big-screen comeback after several years focused on international projects. She will play Mandakini, a central character described as emotionally layered and physically demanding, requiring both intensity in action scenes and depth in dramatic moments. Rajamouli has said he needed an actor capable of balancing strength with vulnerability and believed Priyanka was a natural fit for the role.

Mahesh Babu stars as Rudhra, the story’s protagonist, in what is being billed as one of the most complex performances of his career. The actor has confirmed that a major song featuring both leads has already been filmed, with early chatter suggesting it could become a highlight of the movie. Prithviraj Sukumaran has also joined the cast as the primary antagonist.

The narrative is expected to blend mythology, action, and time travel, with one sequence reportedly drawing inspiration from the Ramayana. Rajamouli, known for large-scale spectacles such as Baahubali and RRR, aims to present epic storytelling while meeting the high expectations associated with his films.

Varanasi is scheduled for a theatrical release on April 7, 2027. Ahead of that, Priyanka will appear in the Hollywood action thriller The Bluff, but her return as Mandakini is being positioned as her major homecoming to Indian cinema.