Mumbai: The makers of SS Rajamouli’s upcoming pan-Indian epic Varanasi have unveiled the first look of superstar Mahesh Babu as Rudhra to mark the actor’s birthday. The official stills show Mahesh Babu in a rugged avatar, complete with a full beard and outdoor gear, captured during the production team’s filming schedule across Africa.
The newly shared images depict the character in diverse landscapes, including the wilderness near Mount Kilimanjaro and the Masai Mara. Speaking about the character, director SS Rajamouli highlighted that Mahesh Babu brings both ferocity and vulnerability to Rudhra, describing him as a witty yet fierce protagonist carrying an unasked-for destiny. The director noted that shooting on location in Africa provided a scale and authenticity that could not be replicated on a traditional studio set.
Varanasi, previously referred to as SSMB29, features an ensemble cast including Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the primary antagonist. The production marks Rajamouli’s first collaboration with Mahesh Babu and is described as a globe-trotting and time-spanning adventure featuring music composed by Oscar-winner M. M. Keeravani. The film is currently in its final stages of production and is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027.
