Bollywood
Varanasi Release Update: SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu Face Potential IMAX Screen Crunch in 2027
BY SACNILK
The collaboration between SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu, now officially titled Varanasi, has set a firm release date for April 7, 2027. Following the global reach of RRR, this project is being designed as an international action-adventure, with the script written by Vijayendra Prasad and music by M.M. Keeravani. The film is expected to be a high-budget production, aiming for a wide theatrical release across multiple global markets. Mahesh Babu has spent a significant amount of time preparing for this role, adopting a new look and undergoing a physical transformation to fit the globe-trotting theme of the story. Given Rajamouli's preference for high-end technical standards, the film is being shot with Premium Large Formats (PLF) in mind. The goal is to deliver a visual experience that scales well on international screens, similar to major Hollywood franchises. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) However, an interesting challenge has surfaced regarding the film's global release strategy. While the April 7 date is confirmed, it places Varanasi in a very competitive window between two major Hollywood productions. Godzilla x Kong: Supernova is scheduled for March 26, 2027, and the thriller Panic Carefully is set to arrive shortly after on April 9. Both of these films are expected to occupy a large portion of IMAX and premium screens in overseas markets. This creates a potential bottleneck for Varanasi. In the international market, Hollywood studios often secure IMAX and PLF screens well in advance, which could limit the number of premium screens available for an Indian production during that specific two-week window. For Rajamouli, who prioritizes the best possible theatrical presentation, securing these screens is a vital part of the film's global rollout plan. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) As of now, the production team has not indicated any plans for a postponement, and the original release date remains unchanged. However, industry observers suggest that the release plan could be revisited if the screen crunch becomes a significant obstacle. For now, the focus remains on completing the project, while trade circles keep a close eye on how the film will navigate this scheduling conflict in the premium screen space.