S.S. Rajamouli's Varanasi to Release in Two Parts

Director S.S. Rajamouli has decided to release his upcoming epic action-adventure film Varanasi in two parts, allowing for a more expansive narrative that spans thousands of years. The project, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is one of India's most ambitious productions, with a budget surpassing 1,000 crore rupees. Production is primarily underway in Hyderabad, India, though filming has also taken place in locations including Kenya.

The choice to split the film follows the commercial success of recent multipart releases in Indian cinema, such as the Dhurandhar series. A source close to the production explained that a single feature exceeding three hours would constrain the story's scope. "Three hours plus would not be enough for Varanasi," the source said. "They are looking at extending it into a two-part format." Rajamouli and his team believe this approach provides the freedom to develop the plot without rushing key elements, treating it as one cohesive story divided for theatrical presentation rather than a traditional sequel.

This marks a shift from Rajamouli's earlier statements. Just last month, in interviews with international...