Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is already creating a massive stir across the globe. Long before its official theatrical release, the film has caught the attention of international industry insiders after a special screening at CinemaCon in Las Vegas.

According to a report by the YouTube channel Mr Like It Or Not, approximately 20 minutes of unseen footage from the film was showed to a select group of attendees at the event. The reaction to the footage was reportedly overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising the film’s grand scale and immersive quality. The creator described the project as a unique blend of traditional storytelling and modern filmmaking, saying, “This film can be both a true grand epic and also a spectacular fantasy story.”

Beyond the visuals, the buzz from CinemaCon suggests that the makers are looking at a major global strategy. There are strong rumours about a potential distribution deal with Warner Bros. Studios. The YouTube creator mentioned, “They just landed a big distribution here in America that will give them a big, global push. Warner Bros. Studios will be distributing this film globally.” However, it is important to note that neither the filmmakers nor Warner Bros. have officially confirmed this partnership yet.

The ambitions for Ramayana don’t stop at global distribution. There are indications that the film will be positioned for a serious Academy Awards campaign. The creator shared, “I am pretty sure they are going to push for some Academy Awards in a bunch of different categories, especially a nomination for the International Feature Film. It’s going to fit that particular style.” 

Mounted on a massive, reported budget of approximately Rs 4,000 crore, the film stars Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi in the lead roles. The cast also includes Yash, Sunny Deol and Ravi Dubey. Planned as a two-part project, Part 1 will hit screens during Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 in Diwali 2027. 

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana Producer Namit Malhotra Promises A Global Spectacle On Par With Hollywood

The shooting of director S.S. Rajamouli’s global action-adventure, Varanasi, has entered a hiatus. The film’s leading man, Mahesh Babu, was spotted at the Hyderabad airport on Sunday, reportedly heading to an international destination for a well-earned vacation.

A Dance Number Filmed

The current shooting break follows the completion of a rigorous filming schedule across two distinct locations in Hyderabad. The crew initially operated out of a specialized set at the Aluminium Factory in Kondapur. Following this, production shifted to Shamshabad, where the team utilized a massive set originally constructed for the Jr NTR-starrer Devara. The production designers likely modified the existing structures to suit the unique aesthetic requirements of Rajamouli’s vision. These local schedules were organized after the Middle East crisis necessitated the cancellation of planned international shoots. Before the break, the team filmed a musical sequence, with renowned choreographer Bosco Martis supervising the dance number. The song is expected to feature some imaginative footwork.

Cameras to Remain Idle

With the primary cast now dispersing, the atmosphere on set has quieted. Priyanka Chopra has also returned to Los Angeles to attend to her prior commitments. The cameras will remain idle for several weeks, with the core technical team planning to resume operations in the first week of June. This interval allows the cast and crew to rejuvenate before the next demanding phase of production begins. Further updates are expected once the team reconvenes for the monsoon schedule.

Varanasi: A Unique Genre

The time-traveling adventure film is rooted in Indian mythological themes and characters. A large part of the story takes place in the temple city of Kashi. It also features Prithviraj Sukumaran and Prakash Raj. Mohan Bingi of Adipurush fame is its production designer. Varanasi, with music by MM Keeravani, is on track to be released in theatres on April 7, 2027. Earlier this month, the team confirmed that Varanasi will meet its deadlines.

Also Read: 8 Photos That Prove SS Rajamouli’s Film Varanasi Would Be a Visual Feast

When Samantha Ruth Prabhu shared the first single, Thassadiya, from her upcoming film Maa Inti Bangaram a couple of days ago, the video immediately started trending. The number, described as ‘the ultimate family party song,’ became an instant chartbuster, primarily because fans were delighted to see their favourite actress grooving in full flow after a long time. Samantha is seen dancing her heart out in the peppy wedding track, and her gracious dance moves impressed not just fans but many within the industry.

Samantha’s Citadel: Honey Bunny co-star took to social media and wrote, “So happy to see you dancing Sam (sic),” an indication of how much audiences want to see her grooving. She replied by dropping a hug emoji. “Love your dancing vibe so much! May you stay this joyous and jubilant darling Sam,” commented Sheetal Nidimoru, sister of filmmaker and Samantha’s husband, Raj Nidimoru. Beyond them, many of her well-wishers and admirers have expressed their gladness to see her enjoying the song. The actress has been constantly sharing behind-the-scenes (BTS) stills, reels, and clips from the song, which features lyrics by Rehman, vocals by Chinmayi Sripada and Punya Selva, and music by Santhosh Narayanan.