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Mahesh Babu's first look as Rudhra in 'Varanasi' unveiled
To celebrate actor Mahesh Babu's 51st birthday, the production team of the upcoming film 'Varanasi' unveiled new images of his character, Rudhra. The stills, captured during a filming schedule in Africa, show the character in a rugged appearance, including one shot on a bamboo raft and another set against the landscapes of Kenya's Maasai Mara.
Director SS Rajamouli described the character as possessing a complex blend of traits, stating that Rudhra is "witty, vulnerable, and fierce." Rajamouli noted that while many can play fierce, few can balance that with fragility, a quality he attributed to Mahesh Babu's performance. The director also highlighted the impact of filming near Mount Kilimanjaro and the Maasai Mara, noting the natural environments provided visual scales that could not be replicated on a set.
Co-star Priyanka Chopra shared a behind-the-scenes photo from the African shoot, wishing the actor a happy birthday. The film, which also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, is described as a large-scale action-adventure expected to be released worldwide on April 7, 2027. While the character reveals generated excitement, some social media reactions expressed disappointment that the update consisted only of stills rather than a full video glimpse.
Entities
MM Keeravani · Mahesh Babu · Prithviraj Sukumaran · Priyanka Chopra · Priyanka Chopra Jonas · SS Rajamouli · Varanasi
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Mahesh Babu underwent three months of Kalari martial arts training to prepare for his role. variety.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the antagonist, Kumbha. variety.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The film 'Varanasi' is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027. www.news9live.com · variety.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Priyanka Chopra plays the character Mandakini. variety.com
- [DISPUTED] Mahesh Babu portrays the character Rudhra and the Hindu God Rama. variety.com
- [DISPUTED] Director SS Rajamouli described the character Rudhra as witty, vulnerable, and fierce. www.news9live.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Filming for the movie included locations such as Mount Kilimanjaro and Maasai Mara in Africa. www.news9live.com · variety.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] MM Keeravani is the composer for the film. www.news9live.com · variety.com