S.S. Rajamouli, a prominent filmmaker from the South Indian cinema, is currently engaged in the preparation of his next big project titled 'Varanasi'. The film marks the return of actress Priyanka Chopra to Indian cinema after a significant hiatus. The shooting for 'Varanasi' is currently underway in Hyderabad, while the promotional efforts for the film are already being made to reach a global audience, indicating the film's international aspirations.

In a recent interview with the American website The Wrap, Rajamouli shared insights about the film, highlighting its epic nature that will weave together multiple stories. Among these narratives, crucial elements of the Ramayana are set to be portrayed, with Mahesh Babu being cast as Lord Ram. Rajamouli emphasized the inspiration drawn from Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, stating that he has seized the opportunity to depict an entire episode from the Ramayana within the film. This sequence aims to connect several smaller sub-episodes to create a cohesive depiction in a runtime of approximately 25 minutes, which plays a significant role in the film's narrative.

The inclusion of Ramayana in 'Varanasi' not only showcases Rajamouli's dedication to Indian cultural narratives but also his commitment to enriching global cinema with these stories. The film is poised to bridge traditional storytelling with modern cinematic techniques, thereby inviting audiences worldwide to appreciate the grandeur and depth of India's legendary epics. Rajamouli's artistic choices in this film reflect a broader trend of incorporating cultural heritage into contemporary media, helping to elevate Indian cinema on the global stage.