SS Rajamouli’s upcoming film Varanasi has reportedly hit a production hurdle after Hyderabad authorities denied a large water request for underwater shooting sequences amid a city-wide water shortage.
The shoot of SS Rajamouli’s ambitious sci-fi epic Varanasi is currently underway in Hyderabad, where several large-scale underwater sequences are being filmed at a studio in Gaganpahad. The film stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran in key roles.
According to reports, the film’s production team approached the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) with a request for around 150 water tankers, each carrying approximately 10,000 litres of water. The water was intended to fill a large tank for underwater filming sequences and was also said to require purification to meet shooting standards.
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However, the request has reportedly been denied by authorities. Officials cited the ongoing water demand in the city during the peak summer season as the primary reason for the decision. Hyderabad is currently facing increased pressure on its water resources due to high temperatures and rising consumption.
Reports further suggest that the rejection was communicated orally to the production team. With the denial in place, the film’s makers are now exploring alternative arrangements to continue shooting the planned underwater sequences without disruption.
Despite the setback, filming for Varanasi is expected to continue through May in Hyderabad. The project is one of SS Rajamouli’s most ambitious films following RRR, with a storyline spanning multiple timelines and global locations, including India, Antarctica, Sri Lanka, Africa, and even mythological eras.
The film is set to feature Mahesh Babu as Rudhra, a time-travelling adventurer, while Priyanka Chopra marks her return to Indian cinema. Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the antagonist in the film. Varanasi is scheduled for a global theatrical release in April 2027.
Published: 06 May 2026, 12:33 pm IST
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