SS Rajamouli’s much-awaited film Varanasi has found itself at the centre of online chatter after visuals from its panel at CCXP Mexico showed several empty seats, prompting divided reactions on social media. While some called the turnout disappointing for a filmmaker of Rajamouli’s stature, others argued the clips did not reflect the full picture.
Varanasi begins international promotions
The Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra-starrer recently launched its global promotional campaign at CCXP Mexico, one of the major pop-culture conventions in Latin America. Producer SS Karthikeya reportedly took the stage, while unseen footage and behind-the-scenes material from the film were showcased to attendees.
The panel was seen as an early push to build international momentum for the ambitious project, especially after the worldwide success of Rajamouli’s RRR.
Empty seats go viral online
However, soon after the event, photos and short videos circulated online showing a noticeable number of vacant seats in front rows during the presentation. Some clips also appeared to show audience movement while Rajamouli addressed the crowd through a recorded video message.
That was enough to trigger reactions online, with some fans terming the visuals “embarrassing” and questioning whether the film had generated enough interest overseas. One person wrote, “This is really Embarrassing, SSR Represented India on a Global Scale and Audience at Mexico Comic con are not giving deserved importance to Varanasi. The Empty seats conveys everything.”
This is really Embarrassing, SSR Represented India on a Global Scale and Audience at Mexico Comic con are not giving deserved importance to Varanasi.
The Empty seats conveys everything….. https://t.co/gV0BMFBfb5
— KBP Reviews🏹 (@KshitizCritic) April 25, 2026
Another wrote, “#Varanasi & #Ramayana seem heavily tilted toward Western markets, while the real powerhouse -Indian audience is being taken for granted. Meanwhile, latest visuals show people walking out during Varanasi BTS at Mexico Comic Con. Signals aren’t great.”
Others defend the turnout
Not everyone agreed with the criticism. Several users pointed out that convention audiences frequently move between panels, especially when multiple big-ticket presentations are scheduled at the same time. Others shared alternate images from the venue showing crowds standing behind the seated area and claimed the snapshots were selective.
Some also noted that promotional panels without trailers or star appearances often see fluctuating attendance at such events.
Rajamouli speaks about Baahubali and Mayan influence
During his address, Rajamouli reportedly spoke about how Mayan civilisation had inspired parts of Baahubali and reflected on the international impact of RRR. His comments were seen as an attempt to connect Indian storytelling with global cultures and audiences.
As reported by TOI, he said, “In my previous film #Baahubali, the city center and the throne were inspired by the famous Chichen Itza pyramid. But I must confess that my knowledge of Mexican history, heritage and culture is very minimal. But now, I hope this will help me learn more and more you wonderful people."
#VIDEO | El director S. S. Rajamouli envió un video con un mensaje especial para sus fans CCXP México 2026, donde se presentó un primer adelanto de “Varanasi”… #GENTE
🎥 Jacqueline Ponce León pic.twitter.com/kvVPGWKLrX
— REFORMA (@Reforma) April 25, 2026
Too early to judge Varanasi?
For now, the conversation appears less about empty chairs and more about expectations. Rajamouli is no ordinary filmmaker, and every move around his next project is being watched closely. A sparse panel turnout may create headlines, but it says little about how audiences will respond once the teaser, trailer or film itself arrives. With Varanasi still some distance from release, the real verdict will come closer to theatres, not convention seating charts.
About Varanasi
Helmed by SS Rajamouli and penned by Vijayendra Prasad, Varanasi is a sprawling time-travel adventure that fuses Indian mythology and historical lore with science fiction. The film stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran in key roles. Mounted as a pan-India spectacle, it is slated for a theatrical release in April 2027.
