Varanasi plot leaked? What will SS Rajamouli's next step be?

With one year left for the release of SS Rajamouli's Varanasi, the film's plot has been leaked online, revealing a time-travel adventure starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra. Varanasi is slated for a grand release on April 7, 2027.

In Short

• Varanasi’s plot synopsis leaked online by visual effects studio Cinesite
• Story follows Rudhra’s time-travel quest for a cosmic artefact
• Kumbha revealed as antagonist seeking global domination

With exactly one year remaining until the release of SS Rajamouli’s eagerly awaited film Varanasi, anticipation is mounting in cinematic circles. Meanwhile, the plot of the mega-budget film seems to have been leaked from a website of a visual effects firm who is working on the film.

The film promises a time-travelling adventure starring Mahesh Babu, alongside Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Despite a teaser glimpse unveiled last year, plot details have been closely guarded - until now.

A synopsis that surfaced online, attributed to Cinesite, a visual effects firm involved in the project, has revealed key elements of the story. The brief summary outlines a Shiva devotee’s perilous quest across time to locate a lost cosmic artefact of immense power. As the protagonist pieces together ancient secrets, he uncovers a darker truth: the mission’s architect is a calculating mastermind aiming for absolute global domination.

The synopsis posted on Cinesite’s website describes Mahesh Babu’s character, Rudhra, undertaking the time-travel mission at the behest of Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character, Kumbha. However, Rudhra soon realises Kumbha harbours ulterior motives. Kumbha emerges as the antagonist, obsessed with acquiring an artefact dating back to the Ramayana era to cement his dominion. The exact nature of this artefact remains undisclosed.

Cinesite is a renowned entertainment service studio, specialising in visual effects, animation, and immersive experiences. Founded in 1991, it has contributed to major Hollywood productions such as The Witcher, Aquaman, Thor: Love and Thunder, and Spider-Man: No Way Home. The studio is currently engaged with high-profile projects including Masters of the Universe and Spider-Noir.

Will Rajamouli intervene?

Following the plot leak, industry watchers speculate on Rajamouli’s potential response. Known for his meticulous control over his projects, the director may reinforce confidentiality measures or alter the narrative presentation to maintain intrigue. However, no official statement has been made regarding the leak or its impact on the film’s promotion.

About Varanasi

Directed by SS Rajamouli and penned by Vijayendra Prasad, Varanasi marks Rajamouli’s first film since the international hit RRR. The film weaves mythology and Indian folk tales with science fiction, particularly time travel, promising a globe-trotting adventure. The star-studded cast includes Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Priyanka Chopra.

Varanasi is scheduled for theatrical release in April 2027, with audiences eagerly awaiting how Rajamouli will blend epic storytelling with innovative visuals. The film’s premise and ensemble suggest a cinematic event aligned with the director’s reputation for grandeur and spectacle.

- Ends