S.S. Rajamouli’s next venture, the eagerly awaited SSMB29 (working title), continues to dominate headlines, with speculation intensifying over its official title. The latest whispers suggest that Rajamouli may christen the Mahesh Babu–Priyanka Chopra Jonas starrer Varanasi, a choice that carries deep narrative and cultural significance.
Reports suggest that the film’s storyline, inspired by the Ramayana and spanning across African nations, positions Varanasi not merely as a setting but as a thematic anchor. The city — known for its spiritual essence and timeless allure — may serve as a cinematic metaphor, aligning with Mahesh Babu’s role, which reportedly draws inspiration from Lord Rama. For Rajamouli, the title would carry symbolic weight, blending mythology with an action-adventure spectacle.
A Set Worth Its Weight in Gold
True to his reputation for grand vision, Rajamouli has recreated Varanasi within Ramoji Film City. This set, said to cost around ₹50 crore, is not merely a backdrop but a central element of the film — described as having “character-level importance.” Industry insiders note that Rajamouli treats sets as storytelling devices, and the Varanasi set promises to be one of the most elaborate in Indian cinema.
The Scale and the Strategy
An exhibitor closely following the project revealed, “The title Varanasi is still under consideration, but the social media frenzy itself is a clear sign of the massive anticipation around the film. SSMB29 is poised to be one of the widest Indian releases ever.” Indeed, Rajamouli is known for blending epic storytelling with unmatched scale, and this project appears no different.
Inspirations Behind the Epic
The film’s story is said to be shaped by the imagination of Vijayendra Prasad, Rajamouli’s father and longtime collaborator, who drew inspiration from the writings of author Addison Smith. This has led to an entirely new version of the narrative, promising a fusion of myth, adventure, and cinematic spectacle unlike anything before.
A Global Stage
Adding to the buzz, speculations suggest that Hollywood legend James Cameron — a known admirer of Rajamouli’s work — may visit India during the film’s promotional phase. Cameron praised Rajamouli’s RRR during its Oscar pre-show as “spectacular” and “muscular,” noting its ability to elevate Indian cinema globally. Rumours are rife that Cameron might unveil the first look of SSMB29 alongside the release of Avatar: Fire and Ash.
For now, the film remains shrouded in mystery. But one thing is certain: Rajamouli is setting the stage for what could be another cinematic landmark — a grand synthesis of mythology, adventure, and visual storytelling that could once again redefine Indian cinema’s place in the global arena.