Global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas has described her upcoming action-adventure film Varanasi as a “career-defining” project, heaping praise on acclaimed filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli for his extraordinary vision and storytelling.
Speaking during recent media interactions ahead of the film’s scheduled 2027 release, Priyanka expressed immense excitement about returning to Indian cinema with a project of such scale and ambition.
“A Career-Defining Moment”
Priyanka, who plays the character Mandakini in Varanasi, did not hold back in acknowledging the impact the film could have on her journey as an actor. She referred to Rajamouli as one of the best filmmakers India has produced and credited his cinematic world-building as a key reason for her enthusiasm.
Calling the project “career-defining,” she noted that working with Rajamouli has been both thrilling and creatively fulfilling. Her statement has already sparked conversation among fans and industry watchers, given the director’s track record of delivering global blockbusters.
“Unlike Anything I’ve Ever Done”
In an interaction with Variety, Priyanka elaborated further, describing the film as unlike any project she has previously undertaken. She hinted at the expansive scale of the narrative, revealing that the story spans extraordinary locations — from Antarctica to other visually grand settings.
She emphasized that the worlds Rajamouli creates are larger than life, praising his unmatched cinematic imagination. According to her, even she is eager to see how the final vision unfolds on screen.
A Grand Return to Indian Cinema
Varanasi marks Priyanka Chopra’s much-anticipated return to Indian cinema after her last Bollywood appearance in 2019. Over the past few years, she has focused primarily on international projects, building a significant global presence.
Her comeback with a Rajamouli directorial has naturally raised expectations. Known for mounting visually spectacular films with emotional depth, Rajamouli’s projects often transcend regional and national boundaries, making Varanasi one of the most anticipated Indian releases lined up for 2027.
A Touch of Tradition
In a lighter moment, Priyanka revealed that before formally signing the film, she jokingly requested the inclusion of a traditional dance number. The comment reflects her desire to reconnect with certain quintessential elements of Indian cinema while exploring new creative terrain.
The blend of high-scale action, expansive world-building, and cultural elements appears to be at the core of Varanasi’s appeal.
Jay-Ho Radar
With Priyanka Chopra calling Varanasi a defining chapter in her career and openly admiring SS Rajamouli’s vision, anticipation for the film has surged. If the director’s past successes are any indicator, the project could indeed become a landmark not just for Priyanka’s filmography but also for Indian cinema on the global stage. As 2027 approaches, all eyes will be on how this ambitious collaboration unfolds.
