Varanasi: Rajamouli drops the idea of filming in Antarctica

Rajamouli had initially planned to shoot key sequences of his ambitious film “Varanasi”, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, in Antarctica. In fact, the team was expected to leave for the frozen continent nearly two months ago. However, the situation has now changed, forcing the ace director to scale down one of his most ambitious plans.

“Varanasi” blends elements from the Ramayana era with a contemporary storyline and also revolves around an asteroid threatening Earth. The project was originally conceived as a globe-trotting action adventure, with filming planned across several international destinations. So far, the team has shot in Kenya, Georgia, and a few other foreign locations.

No Indian film has ever attempted to shoot major sequences in Antarctica, largely due to the continent’s extreme weather conditions, logistical challenges, and enormous costs. Rajamouli was keen on making history with such a schedule, but that idea has now been shelved.

According to sources, the crucial Antarctica episode will instead be filmed in Hyderabad using green-mat technology, with extensive VFX work to recreate the frozen landscape.

OTT problem

The decision is said to be part of a broader effort to rein in the film’s budget. Ironically, Rajamouli, the filmmaker who expanded the theatrical and OTT markets for Indian cinema with his blockbuster successes, is now facing an unusual challenge. Despite the film’s scale and buzz, “Varanasi” has reportedly not received the kind of OTT offers the makers were expecting.

With the market scenario changing rapidly, Rajamouli is believed to be taking a more practical approach towards production spending. The film is now expected to wrap up its shooting by August, with most of the remaining portions set to be filmed in Hyderabad.