Rajamouli’s Varanasi has been making headlines ever since it went on floors, with fans already aware that the globe-trotting adventure is being filmed for IMAX. However, the acclaimed filmmaker had never explained why he chose the premium large-format format, until now.
During a recent interview with French publication Tsounami, Rajamouli finally revealed the reason behind the decision. According to the filmmaker, the film’s breathtaking scale demanded a format capable of delivering an immersive cinematic experience.
Elaborating further, Rajamouli said Varanasi features colossal Antarctic ice formations towering nearly 300 feet (around 91 metres) high, along with massive armies (Vanara Sena) from the Ramayana. He explained that IMAX’s expanded aspect ratio allows audiences to fully appreciate the sheer scale and visual grandeur of these sequences.
While Rajamouli continues to keep the story tightly under wraps, his latest comments offer one of the clearest insights yet into the film’s visual ambition. With the biggest action sequences already wrapped up, anticipation for the project continues to soar.
Starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi is slated to hit theatres on April 7, 2027. Around 80% of the shoot has already been completed. Oscar winner MM Keeravaani is composing the music for the globe-trotting adventure.