The film that is expected to take Indian cinema to the next level on the global platform is Varanasi. Directed by SS Rajamouli, this project is said to be mounted on a scale never seen before, not just in Rajamouli’s career but in the history of Indian cinema. Recently, Rajamouli’s interviews with international media have further increased the film’s visibility across global markets.
The film stars Mahesh Babu in the lead role, with Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran playing important roles. It has also been confirmed that Prakash Raj is part of the project in a key role. Recently, Prakash Raj has confirmed that he will once again play Mahesh Babu’s father. He also revealed that his character will be a devoted follower of Lord Shiva.
What makes this casting interesting is the contrast. Prakash Raj is publicly known for his atheist views, and that has become part of his public image over the years. Because of that, seeing him in a deeply spiritual role has caught people’s attention.
Some viewers feel this could be a big risk. They believe audiences might connect his real-life opinions with his on-screen character, which could create a sense of disconnect or discomfort for a section of viewers. At the same time, others see it simply as an actor doing his job. How the audience ultimately responds will depend on how convincingly the character is written and performed.
Interestingly, this is only the second time Prakash Raj is working in a Rajamouli film. He earlier appeared briefly in Vikramarkudu in a small role. However, Varanasi marks the first time he is playing a major and significant character in a Rajamouli project.
Prakash Raj has shared screen space with Mahesh Babu many times before in films like Murari, Okkadu, Athadu, Pokiri, Dookudu, Businessman, Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu, Sarileru Neekevvaru, Guntur Kaaram, and many more. So, it will be interesting to see how Rajamouli explores the chemistry between these two fine actors.
Reports suggest that Varanasi is being made on a massive budget of around Rs. 1400 crore. Unlike many recent Telugu films where actor remuneration forms a major part of the budget, this project is reportedly focusing more on production value and visual grandeur. This clearly shows Rajamouli’s intention to create not just a big Indian film but a global cinematic spectacle.
