SS Karthikeya’s recent observation about Rajamouli’s popularity in North India has raised eyebrows. While speaking to scribes, Karthikeya reportedly said that when people in the North hear Baahubali, many remember Prabhas rather than Rajamouli. The observation has certainly surprised many.
Is he underplaying his father’s popularity?
There is an interesting point behind the comment. Baahubali undoubtedly made Prabhas the face of a nationwide phenomenon. His character, look and screen presence became closely associated with the franchise. So, for many viewers, Prabhas could naturally be the first name that comes to mind when Baahubali is mentioned.
But Rajamouli’s recognition in the North did not begin with Baahubali. Magadheera and Eega had already introduced his filmmaking style to audiences beyond Telugu cinema. Baahubali then turned him into a major pan-India name, while RRR further strengthened his identity as a filmmaker whose next project itself generates curiosity.
That makes Varanasi particularly interesting. This time, Rajamouli is teaming up with Mahesh Babu, creating a completely different star-director combination. If Varanasi becomes another nationwide phenomenon, it could further establish that audiences are no longer waiting only for the hero in a Rajamouli film. They are waiting for a Rajamouli film itself.
