06 August,2026 04:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mahesh Babu (Picture via X)
SS Rajamouli's film Varanasi has once again fallen victim to online leaks, with a new video reportedly from a major action sequence surfacing on social media just days before Mahesh Babu's birthday on August 9. Fans had been expecting a special update from the makers, but the viral footage has instead become the latest talking point surrounding the much-awaited project.
The clip, believed to be from the film's grand Varanasi ghat sequence, appears to show Mahesh Babu in an intense action scene. His blood-soaked appearance in the footage has sparked speculation that the sequence is one of the film's biggest action set-pieces. While the video has spread rapidly across social media platforms, the makers have not confirmed its authenticity or commented on the leak.
This is not the first time Varanasi has faced such issues. Ever since the film was officially announced, several visuals from the production have surfaced online before their planned release. Earlier leaks included photographs from the sets, portions of the announcement glimpse and what was believed to be actor Prithviraj Sukumaran's first look, making the project one of the most frequently leaked Indian films currently under production.
The latest video follows another alleged leak linked to the film's much-discussed Ugrabhatti Caves sequence. The location was first teased through character posters featuring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas and briefly appeared in the announcement glimpse. Images from the set showcased towering rock formations, intricately carved stone pillars and massive blue-screen installations, indicating the extensive visual effects work planned for the sequence.
The announcement video also offered a glimpse of Chinnamasta Devi, further increasing anticipation for the cave sequence among fans.
Meanwhile, Rajamouli recently shared new details about the film's storyline. Describing Varanasi as a globe-spanning adventure, he revealed that the narrative begins in the holy city before travelling to Antarctica, Africa and even ancient Rome through a time-travel storyline, eventually returning to Varanasi.
The filmmaker also confirmed that nearly 80 per cent of the shoot has already been completed, with the film's biggest action sequences wrapped. Production and post-production are currently progressing simultaneously to meet the planned schedule.
Starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi marks Rajamouli's first collaboration with the Telugu superstar. The director has also revealed that key sequences are being shot using IMAX cameras to enhance the cinematic experience. The highly anticipated adventure is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027.
