What is the debate surrounding SS Rajamouli's 'Varanasi' visuals?

The debate centers on whether the impressive visuals for 'Varanasi' were generated by artificial intelligence or created through the hard work of VFX artists.

Did SS Rajamouli comment on the creation of the 'Varanasi' glimpse?

Yes, SS Rajamouli stated that the three-minute glimpse of 'Varanasi' involved weeks of intense effort by artists working day and night.

How does producer Shobu Yarlagadda view the role of AI in VFX?

Shobu Yarlagadda believes AI can be a valuable tool to help artists create high-quality content faster, but stressed it should not be seen as an insult to their manual work.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Producer Defends 'Varanasi' VFX Artists Amid AI Debate

Producer Defends 'Varanasi' VFX Artists Amid AI Debate

5 Feb

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Summary

Producer Yarlagadda defended VFX artists against AI claims.
Rajamouli stressed the extensive work behind 'Varanasi' glimpse.
AI advancements could aid artists, not replace them, Yarlagadda noted.

Producer Defends 'Varanasi' VFX Artists Amid AI Debate

A discussion surrounding the visual effects for SS Rajamouli's magnum opus 'Varanasi' has intensified. Following the release of a three-minute glimpse in November 2025, some online observers speculated about the visuals potentially being AI-generated. In response, director SS Rajamouli clarified in a recent interview that the glimpse was the result of weeks of intense work by dedicated artists.

Producer Shobu Yarlagadda strongly countered a social media user's comment that dismissed the artistic effort, calling the AI generation claim an "insult to the artists." He differentiated between AI as a potential tool for artists to enhance their workflow and the idea that it had replaced their creative input. Yarlagadda acknowledged that AI could assist artists in pre-visualization and iterations, ultimately helping them create high-quality content faster. The film 'Varanasi,' starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is slated for a theatrical release on April 7, 2027.