Varanasi: First glimpse of SS Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’ created a stir at the international level, roared in Annecy!

Varanasi: ‘Varanasi’ is one of the biggest and most eagerly awaited Indian films being made at the moment. Visionary filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli is directing this action-adventure film, whose blockbusters have given Indian cinema a new global identity. Starring lead stars like Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film is expected to have Rajamouli’s signature scale, stunning visuals and engaging storytelling.​Amid this growing excitement, the first look of ‘Varanasi: To the World’ was unveiled at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it received a very positive response from the audience. The theatre was full of enthusiasm throughout the presentation, and people were constantly cheering and clapping. Although this film has yet to hit theatres, it has already started creating a stir all over the world.The Annecy International Animation Film Festival is held every year in the last week of June in the city of Annecy, France. It is a competition of animated films made using different techniques (e.g., traditional, cut-outs, claymation, CGI, etc.) that are divided into several categories.During this festival, along with competitive films being shown in various cinemas across the city, an open-air night projection (open-air screening) is also organised in Pâquier, in the heart of the city, amid beautiful views of the lake and mountains. Depending on the festival's theme, classic or recent films are shown on this giant screen. All award winners are announced and presented on Saturday evening.It’s really going wild on social media! Mahesh Babu’s powerful look from ‘Rudra’, Prithviraj Sukumaran’s intense first look as ‘Kumbh’, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ commanding avatar from ‘Mandakini’ have already been revealed, which has taken the internet by storm and increased the excitement about the film across the country. These spectacular glimpses have raised the expectations to the seventh sky, and the audience’s anticipation is now at its peak. Everyone is eager to watch this grand cinematic spectacle, which is set to release in theatres on a large scale on April 7, 2027.