Mahesh Babu confirms Varanasi as Priyanka Chopra’s Telugu debut, actor reacts: ‘It’s complicated’

Priyanka Chopra is set to make her official Telugu cinema debut with SS Rajamouli’s upcoming film Varanasi, though the actress has acknowledged that the distinction is not entirely straightforward.

Early in her career, Priyanka had acted in an unreleased Telugu film titled Apuroopam (2002). The project was eventually shelved and never received a theatrical release, which is why Varanasi is being widely recognised as her first Telugu film.

Speaking during a recent interaction with Screen Rant Plus about being accepted by Telugu audiences, Priyanka appeared momentarily uncertain about her Telugu filmography.
“Um, for me, I haven’t done a Telugu movie in… I don’t even know,” she said.

Co-star Mahesh Babu stepped in to clarify the matter, stating, “She hasn’t done it before.”
Laughing, Priyanka responded, “Yeah, I haven’t done one.”
Mahesh reiterated, “She has not. This is her first Telugu film, so I don’t know what she’s speaking.”
Summing it up, Priyanka added with a smile, “It’s complicated.”

The actress went on to speak about the overwhelming response she has received from Telugu fans. She described the affection from the audience as “very specific to this region” and said the warmth and acceptance she experienced were deeply meaningful to her.

Priyanka also noted the strong global response following the release of the film’s title and first-look posters, saying the anticipation surrounding Varanasi has been “really wonderful,” especially at such an early stage.

Varanasi marks Priyanka Chopra’s return to Indian cinema after nearly six years. Directed by SS Rajamouli, the film stars Mahesh Babu in the lead role of Rudhra, with Prithviraj Sukumaran playing the antagonist Kumbha. Priyanka will be seen as Mandakini.

The teaser has offered a striking glimpse of Mahesh Babu’s character—bloodied, wielding a trishul and riding a bull—setting the tone for the epic drama. The film features music by MM Keeravani, with the story written by V Vijayendra Prasad.

As for Apuroopam, the shelved project was directed by GS Ravikumar and also starred Madhukar and Prasanna. Despite significant portions being shot and promotional posters being released, the film was never completed due to reported financial issues faced by the producers.