Varanasi Two-Part Release Report: Rajamouli’s Epic May Split
Varanasi two-part release reportedly planned for Rajamouli’s next film
SS Rajamouli’s upcoming film Varanasi is reportedly being considered for a two-part release, a move that reflects both the scale of the project and the evolving storytelling trends within Indian cinema. The film, which stars Priyanka Chopra, Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran, has already generated significant industry attention for its ambitious vision, and this latest development suggests that the narrative may be even more expansive than initially expected.
According to emerging reports, the decision to explore a two-part structure stems from the sheer breadth of the story, which may not comfortably fit within a conventional runtime. While there has been no official confirmation from the makers, the discussion around splitting the film indicates a deliberate attempt to prioritise storytelling depth over duration constraints. In a landscape where audiences have increasingly embraced large-scale cinematic universes, the possibility of Varanasi unfolding across two instalments appears aligned with both creative intent and commercial strategy.
Why the Varanasi two-part release is being considered
Extended runtime driving format change
At the heart of the Varanasi two-part release discussion is the film’s reportedly extensive runtime. Industry sources suggest that even a film exceeding three hours may not be sufficient to fully capture the complexity of the narrative. Rather than compressing the story into a single release, the filmmakers are said to be exploring a format that allows each narrative thread the space it requires to develop organically.
This approach reflects a broader shift in filmmaking, where creators are increasingly moving away from strict time limitations in favour of more immersive storytelling. By dividing the film into two parts, the team behind Varanasi would have the flexibility to build richer character arcs, expand on key plot points, and deliver a more layered cinematic experience without the pressure of trimming essential elements.
Inspired by recent box office trends
The reported move is also being viewed in the context of recent box office successes, particularly films that have adopted a multi-part format. Productions such as Dhurandhar have demonstrated that audiences are willing to engage with extended narratives, especially when supported by strong storytelling and high production values. The commercial performance of such films has likely influenced the thinking around Varanasi, encouraging filmmakers to consider similar strategies.
However, the situation remains nuanced. Earlier statements from Rajamouli had indicated that Varanasi was conceived as a standalone film rather than a multi-part project. The current reports therefore suggest a potential evolution in planning, possibly driven by the demands of the story as it has taken shape during production. Whether this shift becomes official will depend on how the filmmakers ultimately choose to present their vision.
Scale and ambition of the Varanasi project
Massive budget and global production
Even without the possibility of a two-part release, Varanasi already stands out as one of the most ambitious films in Indian cinema. With a reported budget exceeding Rs 1,000 crore, the project is positioned among the most expensive productions ever undertaken in the industry. This financial scale is matched by an equally expansive shooting schedule that spans multiple countries and environments.
The film’s production has taken place across diverse locations, including Kenya, Andhra Pradesh’s Borra Caves, and even Antarctica. The inclusion of such extreme and varied settings underscores the film’s global scope and the logistical complexity involved in bringing it to life. It also signals Rajamouli’s continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of what Indian cinema can achieve on a technical and visual level.
Miniature Varanasi set showcases production detail
Alongside international shoots, the filmmakers have invested heavily in recreating the essence of Varanasi itself. A detailed miniature version of the city has been constructed, complete with its iconic ghats, temples and narrow lanes. Images from the set reveal a remarkable level of craftsmanship, with intricate details that mirror the real city’s architecture and atmosphere.
This approach allows the production team to maintain creative control while capturing the cultural and visual richness of Varanasi. It also reflects a balance between large-scale location shoots and carefully designed sets, ensuring that the film achieves both authenticity and cinematic precision.
Cast, characters and key details
The casting of Varanasi brings together a mix of established stars and significant collaborations. Mahesh Babu, in his first project with Rajamouli, is set to play a character named Rudhra, who is described as both a globetrotter and a time traveller. This characterisation hints at a narrative that spans multiple timelines and locations, blending elements of adventure with speculative storytelling.
Prithviraj Sukumaran is expected to portray a character named Kumbh, adding further intrigue to the film’s ensemble. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra’s involvement marks her return to Indian cinema after several years, making her role in the project particularly noteworthy. The combination of these actors, each bringing their own established screen presence, contributes to the film’s positioning as a major cinematic event.
Release timeline and production updates
The film’s development has been marked by several key milestones. Its teaser was unveiled at a large-scale event in Hyderabad in November 2025, where the title Varanasi was officially announced. Prior to this, the project had been known by a working title, reflecting its evolution during the early stages of production.
Filming began in April 2025 and has continued across multiple locations, with the film currently slated for release on April 7, 2027. The production is also being shot in IMAX format, indicating a clear focus on delivering a visually immersive experience tailored for large-screen viewing. These elements collectively highlight the film’s ambition, not just in terms of storytelling but also in its technical execution.
Context: Rise of multi-part storytelling in Indian cinema
The possibility of a Varanasi two-part release is part of a broader trend that has reshaped Indian cinema in recent years. Filmmakers are increasingly embracing multi-part narratives to accommodate stories that extend beyond the limits of a single film. This approach has been successfully adopted by several high-profile projects, which have demonstrated both critical and commercial viability.
For audiences, this format offers a more immersive experience, allowing stories to unfold gradually and with greater depth. For filmmakers, it provides the creative freedom to explore complex narratives without compromise. In this context, Varanasi appears well-suited to such a structure, given its scale, themes and global scope.
Conclusion
While the Varanasi two-part release remains unconfirmed, the reports surrounding it underline the magnitude of SS Rajamouli’s latest project. From its expansive storyline and international production schedule to its detailed set design and star-studded cast, the film is already shaping up to be one of the most significant releases in the coming years.
If the two-part format is ultimately adopted, Varanasi could further cement the trend of extended storytelling in Indian cinema, offering audiences a more detailed and immersive journey. Regardless of the final decision, the film’s scale and ambition ensure that it will remain closely watched as it moves towards its 2027 release.
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