Rajamouli's Next Masterstroke?

Ace filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli is currently focused on his much-awaited globe-trotting action adventure Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu. The film is progressing at a brisk pace, with production entering its final phase after the latest shooting schedule resumed in Hyderabad. Most of the high-octane action sequences and key portions have already been wrapped up, while the remaining scenes are expected to be completed by October this year. The makers are reportedly targeting a grand worldwide release on April 7 next year, with plans for a record-breaking international rollout, making it one of the biggest Indian releases ever.

Even as Varanasi nears completion, speculation has already shifted to Rajamouli's next project. According to the latest industry buzz, the celebrated director is likely to team up with Tamil superstar Suriya for a mega-budget film, which is expected to mark the actor's landmark 50th movie. Although there has been no official confirmation from either side, the rumor has generated tremendous excitement among fans. Rajamouli has previously expressed his desire to collaborate with Suriya, admitting that he had missed opportunities to work with him in the past. If the reports prove true, the long-awaited Rajamouli–Suriya combination could become one of the most anticipated pan-Indian projects in the coming years.