Priyanka Chopra Jonas has set the tone for her much-anticipated return to Indian cinema — and she’s not downplaying it. While attending the world premiere of The Bluff on 18 February alongside husband Nick Jonas, the actor spoke candidly about Varanasi, her upcoming collaboration with director SS Rajamouli.
Calling the project “career-defining”, Chopra Jonas made it clear that Varanasi marks a pivotal chapter for her. After seven years away from an Indian production, the film is already being positioned as one of the biggest cinematic events on the horizon.
Why is Varanasi such a big deal?
The film is directed by SS Rajamouli, widely regarded as one of India’s most ambitious filmmakers. Chopra Jonas described him as “one of the best that we have in India”, signalling the scale and expectations surrounding the project.
The official announcement in Hyderabad in November 2025 included a teaser that hinted at a sweeping narrative spanning timelines and locations — complete with visually striking sequences.
Who else stars in the film?
Varanasi features Mahesh Babu as Rudhra and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist Kumbha. Chopra Jonas will play Mandakini, marking her debut in Telugu cinema.
Music for the film is being composed by MM Keeravani, adding further weight to its creative line-up.
When is Varanasi releasing?
The film is scheduled for release on April, 7 2027. With production houses Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business backing it, the project is already being touted as a large-scale spectacle.
What else is Priyanka working on?
Chopra Jonas was last seen in an Indian film in 2019’s The Sky is Pink. Alongside Varanasi, she has international projects lined up, including The Bluff, streaming from 25 February, and Judgment Day, directed by Nicholas Stoller.
For now, though, all eyes are on Varanasi. If Chopra Jonas is calling it career-defining, audiences will be watching closely to see why.
