The buzz around SS Rajamouli’s upcoming magnum opus Varanasi continues to grow as the film inches closer to completing production. Starring Mahesh Babu in the lead, the globe-trotting action-adventure is currently filming an important song sequence in Hyderabad, while reports also suggest that an elaborate underwater sequence has already been completed.

With the makers reportedly aiming to finish the entire shoot by August 2026, the film is steadily shaping up to be one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious projects.

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Massive Set in Hyderabad Hosts Key Song Shoot 

According to Telugu Chitraalu, the latest schedule is taking place on a gigantic specially-constructed set in Katedan, Hyderabad. Mahesh Babu has reportedly been shooting there for several days.

However, this is not being treated as a conventional dance number. Insiders claim the sequence plays a major role in the narrative and significantly pushes the story forward.

Since Varanasi is designed as a large-scale international adventure thriller, nearly every set piece is said to be deeply tied to the screenplay.

Priyanka Chopra’s Wish For a Dance Number

Earlier this year, Priyanka Chopra Jonas had opened up about one of her requests to Rajamouli before joining the project.

Speaking to Variety in February, she recalled telling the filmmaker, “Listen, I’m coming back to Indian movies. I have to do a dance song. Like you have to make me dance.” She further added, “I know I’m gonna be doing it, but we haven’t shot it yet. OK, that’s one of the last things, which I’m really looking forward to. But we already did one where the choreography was crazy. It’s so intricate.”

Notably, PeeCee officially joined the Varanasi shoot earlier this month, fueling speculation that the current schedule could be linked to her character.

Underwater Sequence Completed Amid Hyderabad Water Concerns

Another major update from the production involves an underwater sequence that has reportedly been wrapped recently. Reports suggest the team opted for an alternative filming approach because of water scarcity issues in Hyderabad.

The visually demanding sequence is expected to become one of the standout moments in the film, especially given Rajamouli’s reputation for mounting technically grand action spectacles.

Though these developments have generated significant excitement online, the makers are yet to issue an official confirmation regarding the ongoing schedules or the reported August completion target. 

More About Varanasi

In Varanasi, Mahesh Babu is portraying Rudhra, a rugged adventurer with time-travelling abilities. It has also been confirmed that the superstar will appear as Lord Rama during a special segment in the film.

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Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra Jonas will essay the role of Mandakini, while Prithviraj Sukumaran is said to be playing the primary antagonist, Kumbha. 

Directed by SS Rajamouli, the much-awaited film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027.