‘Varanasi’: Mahesh Babu's look as Rudhra from SS Rajamouli's magnum opus unveiled

Slated for a worldwide release on April 7, 2027, ‘Varanasi’ promises to be an action-packed globe-trotting adventure featuring a star-studded cast, including Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, with a soundtrack by Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani

Published - August 09, 2026 09:29 pm IST

Mahesh Babu in ‘Varanasi’. | Photo Credit: ssrajamouli/X

Mahesh Babu's first look as Rudhra from SS Rajamouli's pan-Indian epic Varanasi has been unveiled on the actor's birthday, giving fans a new glimpse of the character at the centre of one of the most anticipated action-adventure. The still was shared on the film's official Instagram handle, with the caption: "Another trip around the Sun... before we travel across time. Happy Birthday Rudhra."

The newly released images show Mahesh Babu sporting a beard and casual outdoor gear. One of the visuals places the character amid the African wilderness, with zebras and giraffes visible in the background. Another shows the actor relaxing on a bamboo raft or cot surrounded by dense greenery.

The images were captured during the film's Africa schedule, which included filming around Mount Kilimanjaro and the Masai Mara. Director Rajamouli revealed that the locations added a dimension that could not have been recreated on a set.

Mahesh Babu in ‘Varanasi’. | Photo Credit: ssrajamouli/X

"Rudhra was born to fulfil a purpose much larger than himself. He carries a destiny he did not ask for. He is witty, he is vulnerable, and he is fierce. That's what Mahesh brought to him. Anyone can play fierce; very few can play fierce and fragile in the same breath," Rajamouli revealed.

He added, "These frames are from our Africa schedule, and the land gave us something no set could. Shooting around Kilimanjaro and in the Masai Mara, I was stunned. There were mornings I felt even the 1.43:1 IMAX frame could not hold what was in front of us."

ALSO READ: ‘Varanasi’: SS Rajamouli reveals glimpse of Priyanka Chopra’s character from Mahesh Babu starrer

Varanasi, earlier referred to as SSMB29, stars Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran alongside Mahesh Babu. Chopra plays Mandakini, while Prithviraj plays the antagonist. The makers had earlier unveiled Priyanka's first look as Mandakini on her birthday in July.

The character was introduced through contrasting visuals, including a bold black corset-style outfit and a more adventurous look featuring a white crop top and cargo pants. The accompanying caption read, "To more adventures.... more discoveries... and journeys across every horizon." Varanasi features music by Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani. The film is described as an ambitious project spanning multiple timelines and continents and is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027. Production has entered its final phase.

Published - August 09, 2026 09:29 pm IST

Telugu cinema / Indian cinema / entertainment (general)

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