Mahesh Babu Turns 51: ‘Varanasi’ Reveals New Rudhra Look On Birthday

Mahesh Babu turned 51 on August 9, and his birthday turned into a big celebration for fans. His next film, Varanasi, added to the excitement by releasing two new stills of him as Rudhra. At the same time, his hit film Dookudu returned to theatres in 4K.

The new Varanasi stills were shot during the film’s Africa schedule. They were filmed around Kilimanjaro and the Maasai Mara, with Mahesh seen in a rugged look against the wild landscape. The makers teased fans with a simple line: “Fierce isn’t his only shade.”

Director SS Rajamouli also shared what makes Rudhra different. He said the character was born for a purpose much bigger than himself and carries a destiny he never asked for. Rudhra is witty, vulnerable and fierce. Rajamouli said Mahesh brings both strength and fragility to the character.

The director also spoke about filming in Africa. He said the real locations were so stunning that at times even the 1.43:1 IMAX frame felt too small to capture what was in front of the camera. The film has been shot on a large scale and moves across different locations and timelines.

Varanasi stars Mahesh Babu with Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Priyanka also wished Mahesh on his birthday and shared a behind-the-scenes picture from their Africa schedule, calling the experience the “ultimate adventure.”

At home, Mahesh’s wife Namrata Shirodkar shared a candid family picture with their children, Sitara and Gautam. Her heartfelt birthday message quickly won over fans.

Meanwhile, Dookudu returned to theatres on Mahesh’s birthday in a 4K version. Special shows were arranged across several cities, turning the re-release into another part of the birthday celebrations.

Varanasi is scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on April 7, 2027.