Rajamouli’s Varanasi Faces Big Hurdle: Makers Irresponsible?

The makers of SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, have hit a practical hurdle during production in Hyderabad. The issue is not creative, it is logistical.

According to reports, the team requested 150 water tankers, each carrying 10,000 liters, from the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB). The water was meant for underwater sequences at a specially built set near Gaganpahad. That request has now been denied.

The reason is straightforward. Hyderabad is currently facing high summer demand, with tanker usage already stretched for residential needs. Allocating around 15 lakh liters for a film shoot was not considered viable. Officials made it clear that they are prioritizing drinking water and essential supply. They also denied claims that any water had already been provided.

The issue has also triggered reactions on social media. A section of users slammed the makers, saying that when Hyderabad residents are struggling for water in scorching summer heat, requesting such a large quantity for a film shoot looks irresponsible. The argument is simple, public hardship should come before film production.

At the same time, there is a counterview. Some fans have defended the team, arguing that a film of this scale has the potential to bring global recognition to India, and authorities could have supported the production in a controlled way. They see it as an opportunity rather than misuse.

The decision, however, remains firm. Even for a big project, public resources will not be diverted when supply is tight. The production house, Sri Durga Arts, reportedly offered to pay and even requested purified water. It did not change the outcome.

For a film of this scale, such hurdles are not unusual. But this also exposes a larger issue, big-budget productions depending on civic infrastructure that is already under pressure. The team will now have to find alternatives. Private tankers, recycling systems, or controlled studio setups are the obvious options. This may slow things down slightly, but it will not impact the project much.