Varanasi: India's Next Oscar Contender for Stunts?

SS Rajamouli's highly anticipated film, Varanasi, is generating buzz for its potential to contend in the newly established Oscar category for stunt design. Producer SS Karthikeya hinted that the film's action sequences will offer a unique and thrilling experience, distinct from the action seen in Rajamouli's previous hits like RRR and Baahubali. The movie aims to captivate audiences with its edge-of-your-seat sequences.

The Academy is set to introduce the Achievement in Stunt Design award at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028. This prestigious award will honor films released in 2027, recognizing the intricate work involved in creating spectacular action scenes.

Varanasi, slated for a theatrical release on April 7, 2027, is well-positioned to be among the first eligible films for this new category. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. It intricately weaves together elements of Indian mythology, folk tales, and science fiction, featuring a compelling time-travel narrative.

Mahesh Babu portrays Rudhra, a character embarking on a temporal journey on a mission from Prithviraj Sukumaran's antagonist, Kumbha. The plot unravels Kumbha's true intentions, revealing him as the story's central villain. For Priyanka Chopra, Varanasi marks her significant return to Indian cinema after an eight-year hiatus, playing the character Mandakini.