Priyanka Chopra’s new behind-the-scenes video from the Varanasi launch event has taken over social media, offering fans an inside look at her preparations and candid moments with the film’s team. The actress shared a compilation that highlights everything from her Telugu rehearsals to her interactions with Mahesh Babu, SS Rajamouli, Namrata Shirodkar and Sitara.
Practicing Telugu before going on stage
One of the most talked-about portions of the clip shows Priyanka practicing her Telugu lines backstage. Seen with a mask on and notes in hand, she admits that speaking Telugu feels easier when she’s in character, unlike delivering it live before a packed auditorium. The moment offered fans a rare glimpse of her linguistic prep for a Telugu-dominated event.
Backstage warmth: Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli, Namrata and Sitara
Another part of the video captures Priyanka greeting Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli moments before the launch. She is also seen warmly hugging Namrata Shirodkar and her daughter Sitara, a clip fans quickly picked up on for its genuine warmth. The actress then rehearses her stage entry while her glam team works around her, reflecting the controlled chaos just before a major public appearance.
A look at the event night
The reel transitions to the main event, showing the massive crowd, the charged atmosphere, and Priyanka’s brief conversations with co-stars right before stepping into the spotlight. A glimpse of Shruti Haasan’s high-energy performance is also included.The evening marked SS Rajamouli’s official reveal of Mahesh Babu’s first look as Rudhra from Varanasi, previously known as SSMB29 and Globe Trotter. Priyanka plays Mandakini in the film, while Prithviraj Sukumaran stars as Kumbha.
Release update
Although the team has not announced a specific release date, composer MM Keeravaani confirmed that Varanasi is aiming for a Summer 2027 release. Rajamouli also disclosed that the teaser was designed purely to showcase the film’s vast scale—particularly the striking shot of Mahesh Babu’s Rudhra riding an ox with a trishul in hand, which has already sparked widespread discussion among fans.
