Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’ Breaks Record: Bids for Rights in the Telugu States Pass 275 Crore Rupees

The most eagerly awaited film in Indian cinema, S. S. Rajamouli’s «Varanasi» starring Mahesh Babu, has already broken its first record — before even reaching cinemas. As the Indian portal TrackTollywood reports, bids for the distribution rights in the Telugu states (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) have passed the 275 crore rupee mark, leaving behind the previous record held by «RRR» by the same director, with around 225 crore rupees.

Three big distribution names are in the race for the rights: the Dil Raju–Asian partnership, Mythri Movies and Sithara Entertainments, and the auction has not yet ended — which means the final figure could be even higher. Sources close to the industry calculate that the difference from the «RRR» record already exceeds 50 crore rupees.

The Rajamouli–Mahesh Babu combination is considered the cinematic event of the decade in India. The film, shot in the true IMAX 1.43:1 format — the first time an Indian production has been made entirely to this standard — is already being called the biggest film Tollywood has ever produced. Alongside Mahesh Babu, who plays the role of Rudhra, the cast also includes Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini and Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha.

Market expectations are dizzying: it is calculated that worldwide theatrical rights could reach around 775 crore rupees, passing the record held by «Pushpa 2» with about 625 crore. The film’s premiere is planned for April 2027, while the few plot details are jealously guarded by the production team.