The veil of secrecy surrounding the biggest collaboration in Indian cinema is about to be lifted. Director S.S. Rajamouli’s highly anticipated adventure saga, tentatively titled ‘SSMB 29’, starring global superstar Mahesh Babu, has reportedly been finalized with the title ‘Varanasi’. Makers are preparing a massive, unprecedented event at Ramoji Rao Film City, Hyderabad, on November 15, 2025, to officially unveil the title and the much-awaited first look of the film.
The project, which carries colossal global expectations following Rajamouli’s RRR success, also boasts a stellar international ensemble cast including Priyanka Chopra, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and R. Madhavan in pivotal roles.
While several titles like Globetrotter and GEN 63 were previously circulated, industry reports strongly suggest the film has been locked as ‘Varanasi’. Sources indicate that Rajamouli’s team was extremely keen on this title, viewing it as perfectly aligned with the film’s unique storyline.
The film, penned by veteran screenwriter Vijayendra Prasad (Rajamouli’s father), is rumoured to be a globe-trotting action-adventure drawing inspiration from mythology and real-life explorers, with key segments focused on India’s most ancient city. The makers have reportedly invested a staggering ₹50 crore to build an elaborate, massive set at Ramoji Film City, meticulously recreating the intricate lanes and sacred ghats of Varanasi to avoid logistical and crowd-control challenges associated with shooting in the actual city.
This title is believed to underscore the blend of Indian spiritual and historical elements with a large-scale international adventure, making it relatable to a global audience while honouring its cultural roots.
The official unveiling on November 15 is being planned as one of the grandest events in South Indian cinema history. Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli, and reportedly the key cast members including Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran are expected to grace the Ramoji Rao Film City stage. Oscar-winning music director M.M. Keeravani is also anticipated to attend.
In a move targeting maximum global outreach, reports confirm that the entire title and first-look event will be live-streamed on JioHotstar. This allows millions of fans worldwide to witness the highly anticipated moment in real-time, instantly converting fan anticipation into viral digital currency.
The intense fan anticipation for the reveal was recently highlighted by a playful social media exchange involving Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, who humorously teased each other over the timing of the update, sending the internet into an immediate frenzy.
Varanasi is being mounted on an unprecedented budget, aiming to rival major Hollywood productions. The film marks Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s much-anticipated return to Indian cinema in a lead role. Reports hint at an action-packed character for Chopra, who has been in Hyderabad since January, indicating her deep commitment to the project.
Furthermore, the inclusion of formidable talents like Prithviraj Sukumaran and R. Madhavan guarantees powerful supporting performances, adding layers of acting prowess to the grand scale of the Rajamouli vision. While character details remain secret, the casting confirms the film’s ambition to be a truly pan-world phenomenon.
As the countdown begins to November 15th, all eyes are fixed on Hyderabad, eagerly awaiting the moment Mahesh Babu’s new, rugged, adventurer avatar and the final, confirmed title of Rajamouli’s latest epic are finally revealed.
