SS Rajamouli's Varanasi shoot halted after government denies water for underwater scene? Here's what we know

Varanasi (Pic/X)

SS Rajamouli's Varanasi is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated films of the year. The collaboration of the filmmaker with Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran is being highly awaited, especially since it marks Priyanka Chopra Jonas' return to Indian cinema. However, according to the latest reports, the movie, which is currently being filmed, has now faced a roadblock,

Varanasi shoot halted due to water crisis?

According to reports, the shooting for the upcoming actioner was halted in Hyderabad after the authorities denied 150 water tankers to film for an underwater scene.

According to a report by NTV Telugu, Varanasi's production team's request for 150 water tankers (with 10,000-litre capacity each) was denied by the officials. The team reportedly planned an ambitious underwater sequence with Mahesh Babu at a specially constructed set on the outskirts of the city.

However, the makers were denied permission to carry out the underwater scene, and the supply of water brought the shoot to a halt. According to a Zoom TV report, the rising demand for water in the region and the strain on the existing supply system resulted in the disapproval for non-essential purposes. Notably, the denial came even after the team was taking care of the bill for the supply and transportation.

About Varanasi

SS Rajamouli's magnum opus Varanasi stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini, Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha, and Mahesh Babu in dual roles as Rudhra and Lord Rama. The film also has senior actor Prakash Raj playing a key role in the film. The expected globe-trotting adventure is rumoured to showcase Babu's character trying to avert a cosmic disaster. The first look of the characters was released earlier, sending social media into a frenzy and fueling worldwide excitement.

Varanasi is currently slated for a grand release on April 7, 2027. Meanwhile, on the work front, Priyanka Chopra is gearing up for the release of her upcoming American comedy film, Judgment Day, co-starring Will Ferrell, Zac Efron, Regina Hall, and more.

On the other hand, Malayalam superstar Prithviraj has Khalifa and Santhosh Trophy in the pipeline, while Mahesh Babu is currently focusing to completing Rajamouli's epic action-adventure film.