Director SS Rajamouli has announced the title and first look of the much-awaited sequel to Academy Award-winning RRR.
The filmmaker released ‘Varanasi’ at a launch event in Hyderabad, introducing the project which stars Telugu film superstar Mahesh Babu along with Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
The title launch event got off to a lively start as the cool night sky above Ramoji Film City was torn apart by the roar of 50,000 Mahesh Babu fans in full force chanting ‘Jai Babu, Jai Jai Babu’.
Actor-musician Shruti Haasan took to the stage to perform the already hugely popular song ‘Sanchaari’ from the film, composed by Oscar winner MM Keeravani for ‘Naatu Naatu’ from ‘RRR’.
Keeravani also musically introduced the character of the main antagonist Kumbha, played by Sukumaran. Chopra Jonas plays the character Mandakini. Mahesh Babu plays Rudra.
The footage that was released was played on a giant LED screen and took several tries to play while fans waited patiently. The film spans thousands of years, from ancient times to modern times. One of the sequences was inspired by a chapter from the Indian epic Ramayana, Rajamouli said.
“I think that will be one of the most memorable scenes in my film,” said director Rajamouli.
Chopra Jonas and Sukumaran also spoke on the occasion.
“This is the biggest brand in Indian cinema, and our team of technicians and actors are working hard to ensure that he reaches the pinnacle he aspires to, making it flexible to his ambitions,” said director Sukumaran. “It’s SS Rajamouli again, taking Indian cinema to the world. This time it’s bigger than ever, hopefully better and definitely bolder than ever before.”
Chopra Jonas added, “Mr. Rajamouli, what I want to say is that you are truly a visionary who has brought Indian cinema to the world like no one else has done before. So I am truly grateful to you for choosing me to be your Mandakini.”
Mahesh Babu received the loudest cheers, saying, “I’m proud of everyone. Most importantly, I’m most proud of the coach. The whole of India will be proud of us.”
The project is produced under the banner of Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business.
Watch the first footage of ‘Varanasi’ here.
