Rana Daggubati Denies SS Rajamouli's Varanasi Role

Rana Daggubati has clarified that he is not part of SS Rajamouli's forthcoming film, Varanasi. Recent online speculation had suggested Daggubati might be cast as the antagonist, drawing parallels to his memorable performance as Bhallaladeva in the Baahubali films. Daggubati previously collaborated with Rajamouli on Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali: The Conclusion. He stated he was never considered for a role in Varanasi, expressing a wish to have been part of it. The film Varanasi is slated for release on April 7, 2027. It stars Mahesh Babu in the lead role of Rudra, Priyanka Chopra Jonas making her return to Indian cinema, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist. The film's teaser revealed a science fiction element with an asteroid approaching Earth, alongside a mythological theme.