A new set photo from SS Rajamouli’s upcoming epic Varanasi has surfaced online, generating buzz ahead of the film’s worldwide release in 2027. Reported by The Times of India, the image captures a broad blue-screen background surrounded by sculpted rock formations and intricately crafted rock pillars, believed to be from the sequence of Ugrabhatti caves. It’s a segment that had already garnered attention after being briefly glimpsed in Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra’s character poster and the film’s trailer, and this new image marks the first more detailed look at it.
Set photo from Varanasi revealed: Sequence of SS Rajamouli’s Ugrabhatti caves leaked for the first time
Inside Ugrabhatti Caves
The photo, shared on social media on May 26, 2026, does not feature any actors but reveals the scale of the production’s set design. The sequence of Ugrabhatti caves, according to reports cited by the Times of India, are built around the figure of Mata Chhinnamasta Devi, a fiery Hindu goddess associated with themes of self-sacrifice, transformation and cosmic balance. In mythology, he is depicted carrying his severed head while offering his blood to his servants. within the story of VaranasiMahesh Babu’s character reportedly seeks the divine grace of the goddess to defeat an ancient evil force.
The photo confirms the use of blue screens throughout the set, pointing to the extensive visual effects work required for the final sequence.
production unlike any other
It was earlier reported that Rajamouli had traveled to the grasslands of Africa to film real-time footage of migratory animals for a separate sequence. The director has also confirmed the use of IMAX cameras, especially for the Ramayana battle sequence.
Produced by KL Narayan and SS Karthikeya under Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, Varanasi Mahesh Babu as Rudra, Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini and Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha. The music is composed by MM Keeravani. The film is scheduled for worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027 in standard and IMAX formats.
