SS Rajamouli has unveiled a colossal recreation of Varanasi’s ghats and temples at Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City—an estimated ₹50 crore investment crafted to serve as the backdrop for major action sequences featuring Mahesh Babu. This sprawling set circumvents the challenges of shooting in India’s densely populated holy city and channels Rajamouli’s signature blend of scale and cinematic control

Completed Phases: Hyderabad + Odisha
Principal shooting began in early February in Hyderabad with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra. The team then transitioned to Odisha’s lush locales—Koraput, Deomali, and Jeypore—wrapping the second schedule in late March. These hilltops doubled as an African-esque wilderness, amplifying the globe-trotting tone of the project.

Next: July in Kenya’s Wilderness
Following a brief return to Hyderabad, Rajamouli is gearing up for an extensive third schedule in Kenya, set to begin in early July. Expect Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas to deliver gripping performances against dense forests and rugged terrain, as the film pushes its international ambition forward

Vision & Budget: Global & Grand
Currently operating on a jaw-dropping ₹900–1,000 crore budget, this action-adventure is shaping up to be India’s most expensive standalone film. Inspired by Wilbur Smith–style jungle explorations and mythic narratives, its global canvassing—from Indian hilltops to African jungles—cements Rajamouli’s intent to deliver a visual spectacle on par with his previous blockbusters

Priyanka’s Comeback & Ensemble Cast
Marking Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s return to Indian cinema after a six-year hiatus, the film reunites her with Rajamouli’s cinematic vision. Alongside stalwarts like Prithviraj Sukumaran, she promises to anchor the film’s emotional and dramatic core. Meanwhile, veteran VFX studios are onboard to amplify the breathtaking action in Hyderabad’s recreated Varanasi

Final Take
SSMB29 is now entering its third phase, shifting from a ₹50 crore Varanasi replica in Hyderabad to authentic wilderness in Kenya. With two schedules completed and a mega-budget fueling its ambition, the film is one of Indian cinema's most daring productions—uniting mythic storytelling, international locales, and Keeravani’s stirring score. It’s a cinematic journey only Rajamouli could undertake.