Priyanka Chopra's Mandakini first look: Rajamouli unveils fiery avatar in 'Varanasi'
Synopsis
Rajamouli's 'Varanasi' just got its most striking reveal yet — Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini, captured in two stills that swing between fierce intensity and carefree grace. For a film already carrying enormous expectations, this first look signals that the director is building his characters with the same cinematic deliberateness that made RRR a global phenomenon.
Key Takeaways
Rajamouli revealed Priyanka Chopra's first look as Mandakini in 'Varanasi' on 18 July .
Rajamouli's caption read: 'Grace when she smiles.
Fire when she doesn't.' Mahesh Babu plays Rudhra and Prithviraj plays antagonist Kumbha in the film.
The film's title was revealed at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad on 13 November last year; it was previously known as 'GlobeTrotter' . 'Varanasi' is scheduled to release in April next year .
Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli on Saturday, 18 July unveiled the first look of Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini in his upcoming film 'Varanasi', offering fans their first glimpse of the global star's character in what is shaping up to be one of Indian cinema's most anticipated releases.
The First Look Revealed
Rajamouli shared two contrasting stills of Priyanka on his social media account, captioning the post: 'Grace when she smiles. Fire when she doesn't. Mandakini... @PriyankaChopra in #Varanasi.' The dual images were carefully curated to reflect the two dimensions of Mandakini's persona.
The first still presents Priyanka in a fierce, commanding avatar — dressed in a black corset-style outfit, hair tied in a high, tousled bun, set against a warm amber-lit backdrop. The second photograph captures an entirely different mood: Priyanka in a white crop top, black cargo pants, and a beige jacket draped over her shoulders, caught mid-air with arms spread wide and a broad smile — embodying the 'grace' Rajamouli referenced in his caption.
About the Film and Its Cast
'Varanasi' marks Priyanka Chopra's first on-screen collaboration with Rajamouli and features Mahesh Babu in the lead role as a character named Rudhra. Actor Prithviraj plays the antagonist Kumbha, rounding out a high-profile ensemble. The film was earlier referred to by the working title 'GlobeTrotter' before its official title was announced at a large-scale event held at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad on 13 November last year, in front of thousands of fans.
Why This Moment Matters
Rajamouli's global standing — cemented by the international success of RRR — means every casting and character reveal for 'Varanasi' carries outsized attention. Priyanka Chopra, already a recognised name in both Bollywood and Hollywood, brings cross-market visibility that few Indian productions can claim. The pairing of the two on a single project has been one of the most talked-about announcements in recent Indian cinema. Notably, the character name Mandakini — evoking the sacred river associated with Varanasi — suggests a deliberate mythological or cultural layering in the screenplay.
Release and What to Expect
'Varanasi' is slated for release in April next year. With the first look now public, the film's promotional machinery appears to be gaining momentum. Audiences and trade observers will be watching closely for a trailer and further character reveals in the months ahead.
Point of View
The film's top-billed lead — is a deliberate global-market signal. Priyanka's crossover profile gives the film an English-language media hook that RRR lacked at launch. The dual-image reveal, contrasting fire and grace, also suggests Rajamouli is positioning Mandakini as a co-protagonist rather than a supporting role, which would be a meaningful departure from the conventional treatment of women in pan-India blockbusters. Whether the screenplay delivers on that promise is the real question.
NationPress
18 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Priyanka Chopra playing in 'Varanasi'?
Priyanka Chopra plays a character named Mandakini in 'Varanasi', directed by S.S. Rajamouli. The first look, shared on 18 July, depicts the character as both fierce and graceful.
Who else is in the cast of 'Varanasi'?
Mahesh Babu plays the lead character Rudhra, while Prithviraj plays the antagonist Kumbha. Priyanka Chopra plays Mandakini in the film.
When does 'Varanasi' release?
'Varanasi' is slated for release in April next year. No specific date has been announced as of this report.
What was 'Varanasi' previously called?
The film was earlier referred to by the working title 'GlobeTrotter'. Its official title 'Varanasi' was unveiled at a large-scale event at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad on 13 November last year.
Is 'Varanasi' Priyanka Chopra's first film with Rajamouli?
Yes, 'Varanasi' marks Priyanka Chopra's first collaboration with director S.S. Rajamouli.
