SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi to showcase epic 30-minute Rama vs Kumbhkarna battle

SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu (Pictures via Instagram)

SS Rajamouli's ambitious magnum opus Varanasi is getting bigger by the day, and the latest update has only heightened anticipation around the film. Writer Vijayendra Prasad has revealed that the epic adventure will feature a massive 30-minute-long war sequence inspired by the Ramayana, showcasing a battle between Lord Rama and Kumbhakarna. The revelation has sparked excitement among fans eager to see Rajamouli's grand visual storytelling on the big screen.

Varanasi to have a Ramayana connection

Starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi has been one of the most talked-about Indian films since its first glimpse was unveiled. While the project has largely been promoted as a globe-trotting action-adventure, mythological elements have remained a key talking point. Vijayendra Prasad's latest comments appear to confirm that the film will heavily draw from themes and episodes rooted in the Ramayana.

According to the veteran writer, one of the film's biggest highlights will be an extended war sequence between Rama and Kumbhakarna. The battle is expected to span nearly 30 minutes and is being designed as a major cinematic spectacle. Though details about how the sequence fits into the film's larger narrative remain under wraps, the announcement has fuelled speculation that Rajamouli is blending mythology with his adventure storyline in a unique way.

The update also aligns with earlier reports and promotional material that hinted at Mahesh Babu portraying a character linked to Lord Rama. Previous visuals from the film generated considerable buzz after fans spotted the superstar in an appearance reminiscent of the revered mythological figure. The imagery led many viewers to describe Varanasi as Rajamouli's interpretation of a modern mythological epic.

All about the film Varanasi

Rajamouli himself has previously spoken about the profound influence of the Ramayana on his storytelling. The filmmaker noted that the values and ideals associated with Lord Rama have shaped many of his narratives, making the inclusion of a major Ramayana-inspired segment in Varanasi unsurprising.

Scheduled for release in 2027, Varanasi is envisioned as a large-scale action-adventure spanning multiple timelines and locations. With a star-studded cast, cutting-edge visual effects and now a 30-minute mythological war sequence, the film is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious projects of Rajamouli's career.