A recent exchange on social media between Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra has sparked excitement among fans. The conversation appears to hint that their upcoming film Varanasi could soon begin filming in Antarctica.
Social Media Clue About Antarctica Schedule
Mahesh Babu recently praised Priyanka’s performance in her latest project The Bluff on X (formerly Twitter). In response, Priyanka thanked him and added, “See you soon in Antarctica.”
While brief, the reply strongly suggests that the next filming schedule of Varanasi — directed by S. S. Rajamouli — may take place in the icy continent. However, an official production announcement regarding the Antarctica schedule is still awaited.
A Mega-Budget Global Adventure
Varanasi is reportedly mounted on a massive budget of approximately ₹1300 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian films to date. The film also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran in a key role.
The team has already filmed sequences in Africa, Hyderabad, Odisha and other international locations. If confirmed, Antarctica would mark one of the rare occasions an Indian feature film undertakes a schedule in such extreme climatic conditions.
Production has been underway for nearly a year, and reports suggest that several months of filming remain before the project enters post-production.
Inspired by the Ramayana
The globe-spanning action-adventure is said to include mythological inspirations. Mahesh Babu previously revealed in an international interview that he portrays a character inspired by Lord Rama.
Speaking about the preparation process, he shared that he underwent six months of physical training to refine his posture, movement, and running style to align with the role’s mythic undertones. He noted that adapting to the character’s physicality required a significant shift from contemporary screen portrayals.
Rajamouli’s Biggest Film Yet?
Industry observers suggest that Varanasi could surpass even Baahubali 2: The Conclusion and RRR in scale and budget, potentially becoming the most ambitious project in Rajamouli’s career.
The film is being produced under Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business and is currently slated for a theatrical release on April 7, 2027.
While fans now await confirmation about the Antarctica shoot, the project continues to build anticipation as one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious undertakings.
