Referring to US military action in Venezuela that led to the capture of Nicolas Maduro, Prithviraj Chavan asked whether similar coercive tactics could ever be directed at India.
There has been an absolute riot of excitement ever since the title glimpse for SS Rajamouli’s upcoming epic, Varanasi, was out. The multi-lingual release is Telugu cinema’s biggest-ever offering. This star-studded flick, featuring Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu as the intense warrior Rudhra, international icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran, has everyone hyped since the teaser dropped.
The teaser’s premiere at Paris’ Le Grand Rex is the latest feather in Varanasi’s cap. This isn’t just any theatre; it’s Europe’s biggest cinema, a historic venue since 1932 with a massive 280-square-meter screen. With a legacy of hosting Hollywood premieres like Oppenheimer, it carries international prestige. For an Indian movie to snag a spot here, especially at the Festival de la Bande-Annonce, is huge.
It marks Varanasi as the first Indian film promo to grace this iconic venue. The applause for the teaser is proof that Indian cinema is conquering new territories. “Thank you to Le Grand Rex for this exceptional screening. And thank you Paris, thank you to the French public, for this incredible welcome. From Varanasi to Paris, the adventure begins. See you in 2027 for the complete epic,” the makers wrote.
Rajamouli recently hopped on a video call with James Cameron in December 2025. Chatting about Avatar: Fire and Ash, they had a good time. “Call me when you are shooting something fun—with tigers!” Rajamouli, starstruck, promised a set visit in Hyderabad.
Varanasi, meanwhile, blends myth and fantasy with jaw-dropping visuals. With a 2027 release (probably on April 9th), the wait feels eternal, but the buzz is real.
Produced by KL Narayana, the makers are planning to release the action adventure for summer 2027. Talks with various exhibitors and distributors in this regard have already begun. More details will emerge as the filmmakers wrap up the shooting.
Also Read: Mahesh Babu Trains in Kalaripayattu Martial Arts for Varanasi
Vir Das is all set to make his directorial debut with Aamir Khan Productions’ upcoming film Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos. He recently shared an interesting behind-the-scenes anecdote from the film. He revealed how Imran Khan came on board in the most unexpected way. Speaking about the collaboration, Vir opened up about how a simple message turned into an exciting creative opportunity.
Vir also shared that once Imran expressed interest, he felt compelled to do justice to the actor’s willingness to step back into a film set. “After he reached out to me, I went back and incorporated him into the script of Happy Patel… I was like, yes, definitely, but then give me some time. I’ll craft a character for you that is entertaining and wild and we need to do something you’ve never attempted before,” he noted.
The trailer of Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos has taken the fun to another level. It features several entertaining and quirky moments and promises a thoroughly entertaining film. As both director and actor, Vir Das brings a refreshing brand of quirky comedy. As per the makers, the movie is full of energy, charm and a youthful vibe. The trailer further heightens the excitement for the film’s release.
Happy Patel is produced under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions. It is directed by Vir Das and also stars Mona Singh, Sharib Hashmi and Mithila Palkar in pivotal roles. It is slated to release in theatres on January 16, 2026.
Also Read: Imran Khan Reveals Aamir Khan Received Death Threats During Satyamev Jayate