Rajamouli's 'Varanasi' Eyes Two-Part Epic Release

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli's ambitious project, 'Varanasi', is reportedly being planned for a two-part release. This strategy follows the significant box office triumphs of the 'Dhurandhar' film series. The decision is said to stem from the belief that the narrative of 'Varanasi' is too extensive for a single film, requiring an extended format.

This move aligns with a trend of large-scale Indian productions opting for multi-part releases. 'Varanasi' is anticipated to be one of the most expensive Indian films ever made, with an estimated budget exceeding Rs 1,000 crore. The franchise 'Dhurandhar' has already demonstrated the commercial viability of this format, having grossed over Rs 2,000 crore globally.

Reports suggest that the two-part release of 'Varanasi' would not be a sequel but rather a single cinematic work divided into two installments. This approach aims to provide the filmmakers with the freedom to develop the story comprehensively without runtime constraints. However, it is worth noting that the director had previously stated that 'Varanasi' was conceived as a standalone film.

The 'Dhurandhar' franchise's massive success, surpassing Rs 2,000 crore in gross revenue, underscores the audience's appetite for epic narratives. Future projects, such as the 'Ramayana' films slated for Diwali 2026 and Diwali 2027 releases, are also expected to achieve considerable box office success.