SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi is already shaping up to be one of the biggest cinematic spectacles ever mounted in Indian cinema. Headlined by Mahesh Babu alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the globe-trotting action adventure has become one of the most anticipated releases of 2027. While the film is still deep into production, an interesting comment from Netflix India’s Vice President of Content, Monika Shergill, has now sparked fresh buzz surrounding its much-awaited OTT deal.
The discussion took place during the trailer launch of Super Subbu, Netflix’s first Telugu original series. Asked whether Netflix had secured the streaming rights for Varanasi, Monika smiled and replied, “Some things need to remain a surprise for the future.” When reminded that Rajamouli’s Baahubali franchise and RRR reached global audiences through Netflix, she added, “The best stories and the biggest creators are always on Netflix.” Though she stopped short of an official confirmation, her response has only intensified speculation that Netflix could be close to bagging the film’s digital rights for a monumental price.
If the deal materialises, Varanasi is expected to enjoy an even bigger worldwide reach after its theatrical release. Coming immediately after the Oscar-winning triumph of RRR, Rajamouli’s next directorial already carries unprecedented expectations, and a Netflix partnership would further amplify its global presence. Meanwhile, the filmmaker continues to push the project with his trademark perfectionism. The film is currently scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on April 7, 2027, in multiple languages.
Produced by KL Narayana under Durga Arts, with SS Karthikeya associated with the production, Varanasi is reportedly being mounted on a staggering budget of nearly Rs 1,200 crore. Academy Award-winning composer MM Keeravaani is scoring the music, while Vijayendra Prasad has penned a story said to blend mythology with globe-spanning adventure. Designed as a grand IMAX spectacle, Varanasi is widely expected to set a new benchmark for Indian cinema on the world stage.