SS Rajamouli Seems Like A 'New Director' On Varanasi Sets, Says Prithviraj Sukumaran - Here's Why

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Rajamouli may be one of Indian cinema's most celebrated filmmakers, but according to actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, the director still approaches filmmaking with the enthusiasm of a newcomer waiting for his first big opportunity. The actor, who is currently shooting for Rajamouli's upcoming epic Varanasi, recently opened up about the filmmaker's remarkable work ethic and passion for cinema. Prithviraj revealed that despite delivering massive blockbusters and becoming a global name, Rajamouli behaves like a first-time filmmaker eager to make his dream project.

Prithviraj praises SS Rajamouli

Speaking to THR India, Prithviraj gave details about his experience of working with Rajamouli and observing the director closely during the ongoing production of Varanasi. The actor explained that the filmmaker's energy on set is unlike anything he has witnessed before. According to him, Rajamouli approaches each shooting day with the excitement and hunger of someone directing their debut film.

"For someone who does not know, he seems like a new director who had to wait 20 to 30 years to make his first film, and now has finally gotten the opportunity to make a film that he really wanted to make," Prithviraj said.He added that this attitude is perhaps the biggest lesson anyone can learn from the filmmaker. Prithviraj, who has worked with several acclaimed directors during his career across Malayalam, Tamil and Hindi cinema, admitted that Rajamouli's dedication has left a strong impression on him. "I have not worked with a harder-working filmmaker," he said.

Varanasi set had only 20 minutes lunch break!

The actor went on to describe a typical day on the Varanasi sets, revealing that Rajamouli often arrives hours before the cast and crew. According to Prithviraj, even when the first shot is scheduled for 7 am, the director reaches the set as early as 5:15 am. By the time actors Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj arrive, Rajamouli has already supervised the technical setup, rehearsed scenes multiple times with his assistants and finalised every detail.

"For the first shot at 7 am, by the time Mahesh (Babu), Priyanka (Chopra) and I reach there, he would have set up the Jimmy Jib, done 12 rehearsals with his assistants, corrected everything, and be waiting for the actors," he recalled. The actor even asked Rajamouli whether he should arrive earlier, but the filmmaker reportedly insisted that the actors stick to the scheduled timings. Prithviraj also noted that Rajamouli is usually the last person to leave the set every day. The filmmaker's commitment extends throughout the entire shooting schedule, with even lunch breaks lasting only around 20 minutes. The upcoming film Varanasi marks one of the biggest Indian productions currently in development. The Telugu-language epic action drama stars Mahesh Babu in the lead role, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran playing pivotal characters. While details about the storyline remain under wraps, the project has generated massive anticipation due to Rajamouli's involvement. The filmmaker previously delivered global hits such as Baahubali and RRR. Currently under production, Varanasi is scheduled to release in theatres on April 7, 2027.