SS Rajamouli’s ambitious globe-trotting adventure film Varanasi has once again become the subject of industry speculation, this time over its massive budget and the changing economics of the OTT market.
Starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, Varanasi is widely believed to be one of the most expensive Indian films ever made. While the makers have never officially revealed the budget, various trade reports have estimated the cost to be between Rs. 1,200 crores and Rs. 1,400 crores.
The latest buzz suggests that the film was originally planned during a period when OTT platforms were spending aggressively on premium content. At the time, streaming giants were reportedly willing to pay Rs. 500 crores to Rs. 600 crores for the digital rights of a film of this scale. However, the OTT landscape has changed considerably over the last year.
According to trade circles, OTT platforms have become much more cautious with acquisitions. Industry estimates now suggest that even the biggest films may command OTT deals in the Rs. 150 crores to Rs. 200 crores range. This has led to speculation that the Varanasi team is paying close attention to production costs and looking for ways to prevent the budget from rising further while maintaining the film’s scale.
Some reports even claimed that SS Rajamouli could reduce his remuneration if required. However, industry observers point out that Rajamouli has traditionally worked on profit-sharing arrangements rather than collecting huge upfront fees. His earnings will depend largely on the film’s eventual box office performance.
Interestingly, Varanasi is already generating enormous interest among distributors across the country. Several major distribution companies are reportedly keen to acquire theatrical rights, and there are claims of an intense bidding war in multiple territories. Many trade analysts believe the film could lock record-breaking distribution deals well before its release.
Budget-related rumors have become a familiar part of almost every SS Rajamouli project. Even before teasers or trailers are released, reports about escalating budgets, production delays, and financial risks often begin dominating media coverage and social media discussions. This pattern is not new and has followed several of Rajamouli’s films over the past two decades.
Despite repeated doubts, Rajamouli has consistently overcome such concerns, with films like Baahubali and RRR going on to rewrite box office records. Rajamouli has repeatedly proven his detractors wrong with the final product. As a result, many believe the real discussion around his latest project will begin only after its teaser and trailer are released.
Until then, budget speculation is likely to continue dominating headlines, just as it has with many of his previous blockbusters.
