The unveiling of SSMB 29—officially titled Varanasi—has set the film industry abuzz. Director SS Rajamouli revealed the film’s title, first look, and teaser at a grand event in Hyderabad, and the visuals have since dominated conversations across social media.
Mahesh Babu’s striking avatar as Rudra impressed fans and filmmakers alike, prompting an outpouring of praise from across the industry.
Filmmaker Karan Johar shared the teaser on Instagram Stories, calling it “Epic!!!!” and celebrating Rajamouli as “the one and only.” Director Prashanth Neel also expressed admiration, writing, “Take a bow, @ssrajamouli sir! @urstrulyMahesh looks absolutely charming. Super excited ✨ #GlobeTrotter.”
Several other celebrities joined in the appreciation. Telugu actor Brahmaji reacted with, “OMG… Avatar ki baap hi…,” while Jawan music director Anirudh Ravichander celebrated Mahesh Babu with a post reading, “Our dear superstar @urstrulyMahesh gaaru!! #Varanasi What a highhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.”
The first look was revealed during a lavish ceremony at Ramoji Film City, attended by Priyanka Chopra, Prithviraj Sukumaran, MM Keeravaani, Mahesh Babu’s family, and featured a special performance by Shruti Haasan. The event was streamed live on JioHotstar for fans worldwide.
About Varanasi
The announcement video teases a sprawling, cinematic universe beginning with an asteroid hurtling toward Earth. Visuals depict its fragments falling across Varanasi, Antarctica, Africa, and beyond. The narrative appears to traverse centuries and includes references to the Ramayana. It concludes with a powerful shot of Mahesh Babu as Rudhra—bloodied, wielding a trident, and riding a bull against temple silhouettes.
Priyanka Chopra stars as Mandakini, while Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the antagonist, Kumbha. Their first-look posters were released ahead of the Hyderabad event. With hints of time travel and mythological influences, fan speculation around the film is already in full swing.
Varanasi is slated for a grand Sankranti 2027 release.