Director SS Rajamouli has publicly advocated for installing 1.43 IMAX screens in Hyderabad and across India before his upcoming film ‘Varanasi’ releases in summer 2027. The call highlights significant gaps in premium cinema infrastructure, particularly in major film production centers.
Technological Ambitions for Telugu Cinema
At a November 15 event in Hyderabad, Rajamouli formally announced ‘Varanasi,’ starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, emphasizing the project’s technological scope.
“We are introducing a new technology to Telugu cinema. It will be a premium large-scale format filmed for IMAX,” Rajamouli stated. The film will utilize the 1.43:1 aspect ratio, a format renowned for immersive visual experiences but available in extremely limited screening locations globally.
Infrastructure Gap Sparks Discussion
Currently, IMAX screens in India concentrate in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad. Hyderabad—where the announcement occurred and a major Telugu film production hub—notably lacks IMAX facilities, prompting discussion among fans and industry observers.
Social media users raised concerns about local viewing options. “Theres no IMAX in Hyderabad where the actual event took place where this news was confirmed. Can we expect an IMAX in Hyderabad by 2027?” one fan asked. Another responded, “Let’s hope.”
Rajamouli directly addressed these concerns: “I really hope that by the time #Varanasi releases or even before, we’ll at least have a 1.43 IMAX screen in India and an IMAX in my land Hyderabad.”
Varanasi Film Details and Cast
‘Varanasi’ was unveiled through a dramatic video featuring asteroid impacts and scenes spanning Varanasi, Antarctica, and Africa. The trailer concluded with striking imagery of Mahesh Babu’s character, showcasing the production’s ambitious scale.
Mahesh Babu portrays Rudhra, Priyanka Chopra plays Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran appears as antagonist Kumbha. The announcement video has generated substantial anticipation for the large-scale production and cutting-edge technology implementation.
Industry Implications
Rajamouli’s call for enhanced IMAX infrastructure reflects broader tensions between filmmaking ambitions and exhibition capabilities in Indian cinema. The 1.43:1 format represents the largest IMAX aspect ratio, typically reserved for select productions and requiring specialized projection equipment.
‘Varanasi’ is scheduled for theatrical release during summer 2027, giving exhibitors approximately 18 months to potentially expand premium screening infrastructure.
