Have you heard? SS Rajamouli plans to release Varanasi in two installments; Maruthi addresses Thr Raja Saab failure

Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra

Epics don't fit in one movie

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli seems to have changed the release plan for his his ambitious film ‘Varanasi'. According to a new report, his epic action-adventure will be released in two instalments. Much like what director Aditya Dhar did with his ‘Dhurandhar' movies, Rajamouli plans to split ‘Varanasi' into two to narrate the entire expansive tale without butchering it to fit theatrical standards."Three hours-plus would not be enough for ‘Varanasi'. They are looking at extending it into a two-part format," a source close to the project's developments told Bollywood Hungama. "The director and his team feel this extended format would allow them the liberty to tell a more expanded story without looking anxiously at the clock." The movie features Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead roles and is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on April 5, 2027.

Varanasi in Hyderabad

SS Rajamouli

Rajamouli has recreated a massive replica of the temple town, Varanasi in Hyderabad, including a full-scale Ratneshwar Mahadev temple. Built on a rented plot, the elaborate set will be demolished after filming is complete.

Story of dignity

(L-R) Raj Vasudeva and Adil Hussain

Following a strong international festival run, Adil Hussain and Raj Vasudeva's Mercy, directed by Mitul Patel, is set to arrive in cinemas on April 24. The film is centred on passive euthanasia. Speaking about the movie, Adil said, "For me, Mercy is more than just a cinematic project. It is a significant reflection on the human condition and the dignity we all deserve. Stories told with such raw honesty have a universal language. I feel pure anticipation for the audience to experience this journey."

Future is female

Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu has voiced her hopes for women in cinema, saying the industry often makes them "fight for everything twice as hard". Speaking at a THR India event, she highlighted how women "adjust, sacrifice, and apologise", adding, "We do it so cheerfully that we don't even register it as a sacrifice." Urging change, she said, "Stop. You deserve to take up the space you have earned." She added she dreams of a time when stories are not labelled "female-led" and women on screen are portrayed as "fully" human.

Better luck next time

Prabhas in ‘The Raja Saab' and Maruthi

Director Maruthi has seemingly addressed the failure of Prabhas's The Raja Saab. Sharing an update on his next project, he wrote, "Every journey is a learning experience. A heartfelt thank you to my audience, well-wishers and the media for constantly supporting me and sharing your valuable feedback. I will put in my best efforts and sincerely strive to earn your appreciation and respect (sic)." The movie, reportedly mounted on Rs 400 crore budget, grossed only Rs 100 crore at the global box office.