Rajamouli: ‘Varanasi’ Imax Action Complete, ‘Baahubali’ Animation Progressing
10 reported
Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli provided an update on his upcoming feature "Varanasi" and the animated "Baahubali" project during an interview at the Annecy Animation Festival. Rajamouli stated that the major spectacle action sequences for "Varanasi" have been completed, with only smaller interconnecting scenes remaining. The film, set for release in April 2027, is being shot in part on 70mm Imax film and involves a plot where the city of Varanasi faces an asteroid. Rajamouli noted that the Imax format was chosen from the beginning for the conceived sequences, with only minor adjustments needed for framing. Separately, the "Baahubali" franchise is expanding into animation with the feature "Baahubali: The Eternal War," directed by Ishan Shukla. Rajamouli expressed confidence in Shukla's understanding of the characters and the move to animation, citing the medium's ability to capture the "color" of Indian stories. He also welcomed the return of an Imax theater to Hyderabad, calling it long overdue for the region's film enthusiasts.
What’s reported
"Varanasi" is set to release in April 2027.
The plot involves the city of Varanasi facing an asteroid.
The film is being shot in part on 70mm Imax film.
Rajamouli said all important big spectacle action sequences are done; interconnecting scenes remain, with shooting expected to finish by September or October.
Rajamouli stated the Imax format was chosen from the beginning for the conceived sequences, not changed for the format.
"Baahubali: The Eternal War" is an animated feature directed by Ishan Shukla.
Rajamouli said he steps back and lets Shukla take over once he sees Shukla understands the characters.
Rajamouli said the animated medium makes it more feasible to capture the "color" of Indian stories.
Rajamouli said Hyderabad and the Telugu-speaking states of Andhra and Telangana are the biggest film buffs in the world and deserve their own Imax.
Rajamouli recalled that one of the best Imax 70mm projectors used to be in Hyderabad with the Prasad Imax, but it was lost after Imax turned digital.
Key figures
S.S. Rajamouli, filmmaker
Ishan Shukla, director of "Baahubali: The Eternal War"
Sources: Variety
