Ever since director SS Rajamouli announced his film Varanasi, there has been unprecedented excitement. The ensemble cast of Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran has only added to the buzz. While the film’s first glimpse turned out to be a blockbuster hit, here’s a development that has set social media abuzz.

Varanasi to release on April 7?

A few hoardings in Varanasi city now display the date April 7, 2027. While the signage does not reveal anything else, speculation has been rife that the date hints at Varanasi’s release. Many on social media are guessing that since the film is titled Varanasi, Rajamouli may have chosen the holy city to softly unveil the release date. Given the film’s mythological undertones, buzz is that the filmmaker wanted to drop subtle hints from the spiritual capital of India itself. Netizens have also pointed out that April 7 falls in a holiday-packed week featuring Ugadi / Gudi Padwa, Ambedkar Jayanthi and Sri Rama Navami, making it an ideal window for a massive opening. Trade sources suggest that the filmmaker is keen to capitalise on the festive period to register record-breaking numbers.

Rajamouli leaves no stone unturned

On the other hand, this form of publicity is also seen as a strategic signal to trade, distributors and exhibitors to keep their schedules clear for the magnum opus. Although April 2027 is still a long way off, Rajamouli prefers to leave nothing to chance. The director is reportedly keen on securing a solo release window for maximum box-office impact in India. Additionally, given the film’s massive, planned rollout across key and emerging international markets, the release timing is being meticulously calibrated.

Meanwhile, the unit is currently filming crucial portions featuring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Hyderabad. MM Keeravaani is composing the music for the film, which is also expected to be high on visual effects.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas Deep Dives Into a New ’Varanasi’ Shoot Schedule

Actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan visited Visakhapatnam’s Indira Gandhi Zoological Park on Thursday. His visit to the zoo was part of an official review, during which he inaugurated new elephant and bear enclosures, apart from feeding the animals. On the occasion of his mother Anjana Devi’s birthday, Pawan adopted two giraffes in her name.

Pawan stated that he would personally bear all the expenses for the giraffes for one year. Netizens and fans have been appreciating his thoughtful gesture. He also toured the hippopotamus, black bear, tiger, and lion enclosures, and enquired about animal care practices with zoo officials. The OG star further appealed to organisations to support wildlife conservation efforts.

An interesting moment unfolded in the butterfly garden when a butterfly fluttered close and landed on his forehead and hand, prompting Pawan to playfully navigate through. Pictures and videos from the visit have since emerged on social media, with fans celebrating nature’s admiration for the politician-actor.

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