Mahesh Babu’s Divine Turn as Lord Ram in ‘Varanasi’ Leaves Fans Spellbound: Rajamouli’s Epic Takes Mythology to New Heights

In a moment that’s sending shockwaves through the world of Indian cinema, superstar Mahesh Babu has stepped into the divine shoes of Lord Ram, and the result is nothing short of breathtaking. The trailer unveiling of SS Rajamouli’s ambitious project Varanasi at the star-studded ‘GlobeTrotter’ event on Saturday has ignited a frenzy online, with fans dubbing the film “Rajamouli’s Ramayana” and hailing Mahesh’s portrayal as a game-changer for mythological storytelling.

The two-minute teaser, packed with grandeur and emotion, dropped like a thunderbolt, featuring Mahesh Babu not just as the film’s lead Rudhra but in a jaw-dropping cameo as the iconic Lord Ram. Picture this: Amidst the chaos of an intense battle sequence straight out of the epic Ramayana, Mahesh stands tall, bow drawn taut, arrow aimed with unyielding resolve. His eyes burn with the fire of dharma, his posture radiating an aura of timeless power. It’s a visual feast that has viewers clutching their hearts—and their keyboards—raving about the “instant goosebumps” it delivers.

Directed by the visionary SS Rajamouli, known for redefining spectacle in films like Baahubali and RRR, Varanasi promises to blend mythological depth with pulse-pounding action across eras and borders. The trailer hints at a narrative that transcends time, weaving Rudhra’s modern-day journey with flashes of ancient lore. But it’s that pivotal Lord Ram sequence—complete with a chariot thundering atop Hanuman’s mighty tail—that has stolen the show. Fans are dissecting every frame, spotting Easter eggs like the chariot’s strategic placement, fueling theories about an all-out war progression that’s set to rival the gods themselves.

Social media is ablaze, with #VaranasiTrailer trending nationwide and beyond. One devotee gushed, “Dancing to Rama Rama Rama in Srimanthudu to becoming RAMA in Varanasi, Mahesh Babu has come a long way!!!” Another couldn’t contain their excitement: “Wanted to see my man @urstrulyMahesh as Lord Rama or Lord Krishna. Finally @ssrajamouli did this!” The hype extends to the emotional core, with a user noting, “That Hanuman and Lord RAMA moment in the Varanasi trailer? Literal goosebumps! The power and aura were unbelievable. So proud to see our culture shine! Rajamouli sir is redefining Indian cinema.”

Even Rajamouli himself was swept up in the magic during the photoshoot. Recalling the first day Mahesh donned the Rama attire, the director shared, “When I started this film, I didn’t think I would capture an important part of Ramayana. On the first day of photoshoot, I had goosebumps seeing Mahesh in the attire of Rama.” It’s a sentiment echoed by fans who predict this will be “something beyond anything we’ve ever seen,” with one imagining the sequence’s untold layers: “I don’t even know what exactly happens in this #Varanasi sequence, but just imagining it is giving unanimous goosebumps.”

The cast adds further star power, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas stepping into a pivotal role alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran, promising a global appeal that could put Varanasi on the international map. Yet, the buzz isn’t without its epic rivalries. As Nitish Tiwari’s Ramayana—starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Yash as Ravana—gears up for release, whispers of a “Battle of the Rams” are growing louder. Where Tiwari’s take leans into classical reverence, Rajamouli’s vision amps up the action with his signature scale, setting the stage for a mythological showdown that could dominate box offices for years.

For Mahesh Babu, this isn’t just another role; it’s a full-circle moment for the Telugu icon who’s long been a favorite for divine avatars. From his charming dance moves in Srimanthudu to this commanding presence as Rama, the evolution is poetic. As one eagle-eyed fan pointed out, “On Hanuman’s tail, if you closely see there is a chariot riding on top of it. Full glory Lord Ram progressing into the war?”

Varanasi isn’t just a film—it’s a cultural phenomenon in the making, poised to elevate Indian epics to blockbuster glory. With shooting underway and more reveals on the horizon, one thing’s clear: Rajamouli and Mahesh have unleashed a Rama that’s ready to conquer hearts and screens alike. Stay tuned; the battle for cinematic immortality has just begun.

What do you think—Team Mahesh Rama or Team Ranbir? Drop your thoughts below!