Mahesh Babu is celebrating his birthday today, and SS Rajamouli marked the occasion with a special treat for fans. The filmmaker unveiled two new stills of Mahesh as Rudhra from their much-awaited film Varanasi. The latest glimpses offer a closer look at the actor’s character and come from the film’s Africa schedule.
In the first picture, Mahesh can be seen seated against a picturesque natural backdrop, sporting a calm and composed expression. The second still also features him amid nature, with animals visible in the background, but sees him channel a more intense side of Rudhra. Sharing the pictures, Rajamouli wrote, “Fierce isn’t his only shade… RUDHRA in #Varanasi. @urstrulyMahesh.”
Mahesh Babu’s co-star Priyanka Chopra Jonas also wished him on his birthday by sharing the new photos. She wrote, “Another trip around the Sun… before we travel across time. Happy Birthday Rudhra.”
Take a look at the photos below:
Fierce isn’t his only shade…
RUDHRA in #Varanasi. @urstrulyMahesh pic.twitter.com/j6SdSKBrEJ
— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) August 9, 2026
Rajamouli has previously described Rudhra as a character who is witty, vulnerable and fierce, suggesting that there is more to him than the intense persona glimpsed in earlier promotional material. The newly released stills further tease the different shades of Mahesh’s character.
The director also revealed that Varanasi will take audiences across several locations and time periods. The story moves from Varanasi to Antarctica and Africa before going back in time to Ancient Rome and eventually returning to Varanasi.
Varanasi marks Mahesh Babu’s first collaboration with Rajamouli and also stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini, along with Prithviraj Sukumaran. This film marks the actress’ return to Indian cinema after a long time. The action-adventure was officially announced for a theatrical release on April 7, 2027.
Also Read: Varanasi: Is This The Storyline of Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Mahesh Babu’s Film?
By
By
