Priyanka Chopra brought warmth and excitement to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where she spoke candidly about her long-awaited return to Indian cinema after nearly seven years.
The global star opened up about her upcoming film Varanasi, directed by S. S. Rajamouli and co-starring Mahesh Babu, calling the project an emotional milestone in her career.
“It Feels Like a Homecoming”
For Priyanka, the film represents more than just another big-screen appearance. After building a strong international portfolio across Hollywood and streaming platforms, stepping back into the Indian film industry holds deep personal significance.
Speaking to Jimmy Fallon, she shared,
“I haven’t done an Indian movie in almost six or seven years. This movie is called Varanasi, and it is directed by SS Rajamouli, one of India’s most amazingly talented directors. It is going to be an adventure, and I am very excited about it.”
Her enthusiasm was evident, particularly when discussing her collaboration with Rajamouli, known globally for his large-scale cinematic storytelling.
A 14-Month Shoot — And Counting
Priyanka also revealed the massive scale of the production.
“Oh my god! We have been filming for 14 months, and we are still filming for another six,” she said, drawing a surprised reaction from Fallon and the studio audience.
The extended production schedule reflects the ambitious nature of the film, which is being mounted as a grand cinematic spectacle.
Shot for IMAX
Adding to the anticipation, Varanasi has been filmed specifically for IMAX screens. Fallon referenced industry buzz calling the film an epic, to which Priyanka confirmed:
“Yes, we have shot it in IMAX format, so it is going to be for IMAX theatres. It is going to be great.”
In the film, Priyanka plays Mandakini opposite Mahesh Babu’s Rudhra — a character previously introduced in promotional material by Rajamouli.
With a reported April 2027 release, the project is already generating strong industry and fan interest.
Balancing Global Commitments
Even as she returns to Indian cinema, Priyanka continues to expand her international slate. She is currently seen in The Bluff, which premiered on Prime Video on 25 February. The action-heavy project features her alongside Karl Urban, further underscoring her versatility across industries.
Whether in India or abroad, Priyanka Chopra’s career trajectory continues to reflect global ambition paired with personal reinvention.
