Khaberni - Global artist Priyanka Chopra is preparing to return to Indian cinema after a seven-year absence, through the epic action and adventure film "Varanasi", directed by veteran director S.S. Rajamouli.
The film has a huge budget amounting to 1,400 crore Indian Rupees (about 150 million dollars), making it the most expensive film production in Bollywood. It is also the first Indian film to be showcased in the IMAX 1.43:1 format, representing an unprecedented technical step.
In an interview with "Variety" magazine, Chopra confirmed that the work is completely different from what she has done before, explaining that it takes viewers on a journey from Antarctica to fantasy worlds, specifically designed with Rajamouli's vision. She mentioned that she made sure the songs include complex dance performances, noting that she has finished filming one of them and described the design of its dances as "precise and stunning."
Before its release in theaters, "Varanasi" has already started achieving record successes: Netflix acquired the digital streaming rights for between 650 and 700 crore Rupees, while Indian actor Mahesh Babu signed an exclusive three-year contract worth 50 crore annually, totaling 150 crore, the highest in his career. Director Rajamouli has adopted a profit-sharing model reaching up to 50% after cost recovery instead of a fixed salary.
The film is written by Rajamouli in collaboration with Vijayendra Prasad and S.S. Kanchi, and stars alongside Chopra and Mahesh Babu, actor "Prithviraj Sukumaran" in the role of the main antagonist.
The film "Varanasi" is scheduled to be released globally in cinemas on April 7, 2027, making it the most notable Indian cinematic event of the year.
