Varanasi Plot Feels Familiar, But Rajamouli Mark Matters!

After setting the pan-India bar so high with films like Baahubali and RRR, master storyteller SS Rajamouli is coming up with a more ambitious attempt with his science fiction adventure Varanasi, which stars Superstar Mahesh Babu and renowned actress Priyanka Chopra in lead roles. 

Just like how he did for his previous films, Rajamouli has already revealed the core plot of Varanasi in his recent foreign trips. Accordingly, the synopsis of this big-budget entertainer is currently making rounds in the media. 

Going by this brief description about the film, the story set in the modern era is about a high-stakes race against time as a giant asteroid threatens to destroy the historic city of Varanasi. The lead protagonist named Rudhra, who is a rugged explorer, joins forces with an able historian Mandakini to embark on an adventurous pursuit to retrieve an artifact that could save the city from catastrophe. 

If this synopsis is true, it sounds a bit familiar because there are numerous Hollywood films following a cosmic threat, a hunt for an ancient relic, and a globe trotting chase. Though the template seems to be relatively new for Indian audiences, it is a typical set up for many science fiction thrillers and treasure troves in Hollywood. 

Despite all familiarity, one can be very sure that Rajamouli will still command the viewers attention and keep them glued to seats with his narration. This has been the biggest strength of his craft all these years. He has already proved several times on how to keep the viewers engrossed despite narrating formulaic stories. 

Be it Eega, Maryada Ramanna, Yama Donga, Maghadheera, Baahubali, RRR, all films turned out to be blockbusters because of his ability to make them visually appealing, emotionally touching and seamlessly engaging. 

On the top of his vision is the strategy to keep audiences well prepared about his stories before coming to the theatres. Letting them know the core premise during promotional interviews, he clears away narrative confusion and allows viewers to immerse themselves entirely in the experience, the character arcs, and the emotional depth built into the world.

Similarly, the premise of Varanasi might feel familiar on paper. But, it is Rajamouli’s treatment that matters the most at the end of the day.