Mahesh Babu’s Rudhra look unveiled in Varanasi stills

Two new character stills of Mahesh Babu from S.S. Rajamouli’s upcoming film “Varanasi” were released on Sunday to mark the actor’s 49th birthday, offering the first public glimpse of his character Rudhra. Shot on location in Africa, the black-and-white images show Babu in a rugged, bare-chested look with long hair and tribal markings. The film’s story spans thousands of years and multiple continents, weaving through Antarctica, Africa, and the holy city of Varanasi in northern India. Babu plays dual roles, a first in his career with Rajamouli, who last directed the global blockbuster “RRR.”

The reveal comes as anticipation builds for Babu’s collaboration with Rajamouli, one of Indian cinema’s most commercially successful directors. Rajamouli is known for creating visual spectacles that blend myth, history, and action, as seen in “Baahubali.” “Varanasi” is said to explore themes of time, power, and rebirth, set against the backdrop of Kashi, the ancient spiritual capital of Hinduism. The Africa shoot hints at sequences that traverse eras and geographies, a hallmark of Rajamouli’s ambition to push cinematic boundaries. Babu’s involvement signals a major shift toward pan-Indian and international appeal, especially after his recent successes in Telugu cinema such as “Sarkaru Vaari Paata.”

Industry observers note that Babu’s dual-role entry aligns with Rajamouli’s signature style of layered storytelling and grand scale. While no official plot details have been confirmed, the Africa location suggests sequences set in prehistoric or ancient times, possibly involving Rudhra as a warrior or protector figure. The film is expected to feature a large ensemble cast, music by A.R. Rahman, and advanced VFX work. Babu’s birthday gift to fans—these stills—follows a pattern of strategic marketing seen in Rajamouli’s past projects, designed to sustain buzz ahead of a high-budget release.

With principal photography reportedly underway across multiple continents, “Varanasi” is poised to become one of India’s most expensive and anticipated films. The dual-character arc for Babu introduces fresh creative stakes and could redefine his star image. Fans now await further stills, a title announcement, and a release window, expected in 2025. For Rajamouli, coming off the global success of “RRR,” this project represents a chance to fuse mythic grandeur with modern storytelling—with Babu at the center of the spectacle.