Baahubali-3 Set for Animation Makeover

Director SS Rajamouli is reportedly mulling an animated format for Baahubali-3. Meanwhile, the first two instalments are being re-released as Baahubali: The Epic and will hit theatres on October 31, 2025, much to the delight of fans.

Speculation around a third part has been rife for years, with Rajamouli himself stating he would proceed only if a compelling story emerges. Latest buzz from industry circles indicates makers are seriously considering animation. “An animated Baahubali-3 is very much on the cards, producers are aligned and the project could soon move to production,” sources revealed.

Assembling the original cast, Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty and Tamannah, for a live action sequel poses logistical challenges. Prabhas remains packed with commitments for the next two years, Anushka has scaled back, Tamannaah’s role would need expansion, and Rana’s character concluded in Baahubali-2. Securing the ensemble for live action has thus become a hurdle.

“If everything falls into place, the film could release in 2026 with a warrior centric plot, emotional depth and stunning visuals,” online chatter suggests. Producer Naga Vamsi recently remarked, “Animation is the new wave. Budgets are a fraction, Baahubali duo cost over ₹200 crore combined, while an animated version can wrap up in ₹40 to 50 crore, which is easily recoverable.”

He elaborated, “Animation offers boundless creative freedom, transcending visual constraints to craft unimaginable sequences. Live action limits stunts like cliff jumps for safety, in animation, the sky’s the limit. Multiple projects are in the pipeline, executed indoors by around 100 animators working on diverse angles across systems to deliver a true masterpiece.”

Vamsi is also teaming with Thandel director Chandu Mondeti for Vayuputra, an animated retelling of Lord Hanuman’s saga. With Mahavatar Narasimha in the works, animation is gaining momentum not just in Hollywood but in India too. It remains to be seen who else will venture into animating our epics, myths and fresh narratives.