SS
Rajamouli has a vision like no other filmmaker. Known for delivering magnum opus and opulence, his upcoming Varanasi is no different. The movie starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Prakash Raj, has been made at an unbelievably high budget. Infact there have long been speculations about the amount its producers have pooled in for the action-adventure. Now we know. The Telugu language movie was made for $150 million USD (approximately Rs 1361 crore), making it the most expensive Indian film ever produced. Varanasi marks the return of desi girl Priyanka Chopra to the Indian screens after almost 6 years. The film is gearing up for a release on April 7.
Priyanka Chopra's return to Indian cinema
Varanasi's budget was revealed during Priyanka's latest interview with Variety. On the sidelines of speaking about her personal and professional choices, she also revealed why she signed up for Varanasi, Rajamouli's follow-up to his previous smash hit
RRR, starring Ram Charan and Jr NTR. Such is the excitement about her comeback to Indian cinema that when the makers revealed her first look, a saree-clad, gun-yielding action-packed character, fans couldn't hold their happiness. Infact her poster broke the internet with netizens expressing how much they missed seeing her in an Indian role.
Varanasi's budget Vs RRR
The fact that Rajamouli has broken his own record of taking the budget of his new offering higher is worth noticing. His last release,
RRR's budget shot up to $72 million due to its extensive VFX and massive action sequences.
RRR grossed $166 million globally, with $130 million amassing in India.
Varanasi's expenses breakdown
But
Varanasi seems to be on a different level altogether. His astounding budget is mainly due to its extensive visual effects and the lengthy shooting schedule. From India to the forests of Kenya, this globe-trotting adventure was filmed across more than seven countries. Infact, it is also one of the few films to be shot in Antarctica.
SS Rajamouli's remuneration
SS Rajamouli has already confirmed using IMAX cameras to shoot specific portions in the movie. And given the high budget, the remuneration of the cast has also jumped. It has also been reported that the
Baahubali director has let go of any direct salary for the film. Instead, he has asked for the overseas theatrical rights, which are possibly valued at around Rs 160 crore. This number could go higher if Varanasi manages to make the right noise with its trailer and promotional material. This would then make Rajamouli, the director to receive the highest remuneration ever in Indian cinema, surpassing several superstars like Rajinikanth, Thalapathy Vijay, Shah Rukh Khan and others.
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