We Needed Something Bigger: Rajamouli Reveals Why 'Varanasi' Is Being Shot for IMAX

Ever since SS Rajamouli unveiled Varanasi, one question has intrigued fans: Why is the Mahesh Babu starrer being filmed for IMAX? The ace filmmaker has finally answered it, and his explanation proves that the film is aiming for a cinematic scale unlike anything Indian audiences have seen before.

Speaking to French publication Tsounami, Rajamouli revealed that the decision was made while the film was still taking shape. "Once we started writing the script, as the details started emerging, we realized we needed something bigger to encompass these visuals. Obviously, the first thing that came to our mind was IMAX," he said.

Explaining why the premium format was essential, the filmmaker added, "The format is to encompass the scale. For example, the Antarctica portion, the Ramayana portion, you have seen how they're tall and vertical. To encompass them is why we needed something bigger format. That has been the main reason why we filmed in IMAX."

Rajamouli also made it clear that while he focuses on the storytelling, the technical execution is left to his crew. "All the technicalities will be taken care of by the DOP. I don't get into the technicalities. I will be telling them, 'This is my vision, so which is the best way to fit my vision,'" he said.

The filmmaker revealed that Varanasi features breathtaking Antarctica landscapes with ice formations rising nearly 300 feet (around 91 metres), along with gigantic Vanara Sena armies inspired by the Ramayana. These towering visuals, he believes, can only be experienced in their full glory through IMAX's expanded 1.43:1 aspect ratio, making Varanasi the first Indian and first non English language film to be shot in the format.

While Rajamouli is still guarding the story's biggest secrets, he has confirmed that the film is not a two part franchise but a single three hour epic. Around 80% of the shoot has already been completed, with the biggest action set pieces already wrapped up. Filming is expected to conclude later this year.

Starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi is scheduled for a grand worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027. With music by Oscar winner MM Keeravaani, the globe-trotting adventure is shaping up to be Rajamouli's most visually ambitious film yet and perhaps Indian cinema's biggest IMAX spectacle ever.