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Mahesh Babu trains in ancient martial art form Kalaripayattu for SS Rajamouli's Varanasi

Updated on: 22 December,2025 04:27 PM IST  |  Mumbai
mid-day online correspondent |

As SS Rajamouli's Varanasi shapes up as one of the most anticipated spectacles, according to the latest update, Mahesh Babu is now training in the ancient martial art form, Kalaripayattu. His trainer recently shared insights into how he is preparing for his role

Mahesh Babu trains in ancient martial art form Kalaripayattu for SS Rajamouli's Varanasi

Mahesh Babu in Varanasi

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SS Rajamouli's ambitious time-travel adventure Varanasi has been one of the most anticipated titles, with fans closely watching out for anyupdates or developments about the film. Now, according to the latest development, the lead actor, Mahesh Babu, has been receiving intensive training in the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. The big-budget production iscurrently in progress, and is believed to be his most demanding role yet. 

SS Rajamouli trains in Kalaripayattu


The Telugu superstar will be seen essaying the role of Rudhra in Rajamouli’s next directorial venture. The news of Mahesh Babu’s martial arts training gained attention after Hyderabad-based instructor Hari Krish shared some photos with the actor on Instagram. On one of the images, he wrote, “I never thought my journey would lead me to train a global star of Indian cinema on Kalaripayattu."



Revealing the identity of the star, he added, “Feeling proud and truly blessed to have trained urstrulymahesh sir in the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. His lifestyle, aura, and hospitality are deeply inspiring."

The trainer also appreciated senior actor Nasser and Rajamouli, writing, “Immense gratitude to nasser_unmasked sir for the opportunity and ssrajamouli sir for his acceptance."

Kalaripayattu is one of the world’s oldest martial arts, which originated in the state of Kerala. The martial art form combines physical training, spiritual discipline, and unique combat techniques, and is known for its animal-inspired postures, fluid movements, and the use of traditional weapons such as swords and sticks. The art form has been famously used earlier in films such as Commando (2013), Baaghi (2016), and Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025).

About Varanasi

Varanasi also stars Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini and Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha, along with Mahesh Babu. The project is said to be an adventure spanning continents and timelines. Anticipation for the film skyrocketed after the makers held a grand event named Globetrotter to announce the name of the film in Hyderabad earlier. They later released a short video showcasing glimpses of its expansive world, increasing the intrigue among the fans. 

As the production for Rajamouli's film continues, industry insiders are calling it one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious projects. The film is eyes a release date of Sankranthi 2027.

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