SS Rajamouli’s most-awaited upcoming film ‘Varanasi’ could present an action style unlike his previous blockbusters, according to producer SS Karthikeya.In a recent chat with Thyview, SS Karthikeya was asked about the scale and nature of the stunts being created for ‘Varanasi’. The producer suggested that the film would move away from the action approach seen in SS Rajamouli’s earlier works.He said the sequences would be designed to keep viewers engaged throughout the film. SS Karthikeya also stressed that audiences should not expect another version of the action seen in ‘RRR’ or ‘Baahubali‘.He said, “It’s going to be crazy and a different kind of action. Not the kind of action that you saw in RRR or Baahubali. It’s a completely different kind of action, but you will be on the edge of your seat in every sequence. So let’s see.”
‘Varanasi’ and the new Oscar stunt category
The comments come at a pivotal time for action cinema. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has reportedly announced plans to introduce an Achievement in Stunt Design category.The new award will be presented for the first time at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028. Films released during 2027 will be eligible for consideration under the new category. The category will recognise contributions from stunt designers, coordinators, performers and choreographers. Other specialists involved in developing complex action set pieces will also be eligible for recognition, according to Hindustan Times.Could SS Rajamouli’s film enter the Oscar conversation?SS Karthikeya did not explicitly announce an Oscar campaign for ‘Varanasi’. However, his remarks about the film’s action have naturally raised questions about its prospects under the new category.The producer’s description suggests that SS Rajamouli has attempted something different from the action grammar associated with his previous films. ‘RRR’ and ‘Baahubali’ were both known for their large-scale set pieces and elaborate stunt work. Whether ‘Varanasi’ eventually becomes an Oscar contender will depend on the film and its eligibility.
SS Karthikeya talks about ‘Mahabharata’
During the same interaction, SS Karthikeya also spoke about SS Rajamouli’s long-discussed plans to make a film based on the ‘Mahabharata’. He said there has been no significant progress on the ambitious project so far.According to the producer, SS Rajamouli continues to feel that he is “not ready” to begin work on the project. The filmmaker has previously spoken about the scale and responsibility involved in bringing the epic to the screen.SS Karthikeya also opened up on his association with SS Rajamouli. After working alongside the filmmaker for around 25 years, he said he has noticed a change in his approach. He observed that SS Rajamouli has become more patient over the years.
Mahesh Babu leads ‘Varanasi’
‘Varanasi’ is written by Vijayendra Prasad and marks SS Rajamouli’s first directorial project after the global success of ‘RRR’. The film stars Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in key roles.For the Malayali audiences, ‘Varanasi’ is expected to mark a grand comeback for Prithviraj Sukumaran after his recent underwhelming Onam release ‘Khalifa’.