Mahesh Babu–Priyanka Chopra Captures Real Wildlife Action in Rajamouli’s Varanasi

Superstar Mahesh Babu and global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas have shared fascinating insights into their experience working with master filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli on his much-anticipated project Varanasi. Known for redefining scale and spectacle in Indian cinema, Rajamouli appears to have taken a bold creative turn by prioritising real locations and practical visuals over heavy dependence on visual effects.

After completing key portions of the shoot in India, the film’s unit travelled to Nairobi, Africa, for an extensive schedule. Priyanka Chopra Jonas gave fans a glimpse of the adventure by sharing photos and videos from the African wilderness on social media, featuring wildlife such as hippos, hyenas, ostriches, and buffaloes.

The posts triggered intense speculation among fans, many of whom believe Rajamouli is capturing authentic jungle landscapes and real animals rather than recreating them digitally.

In a recent interview, Priyanka opened up about the unforgettable experience. “We filmed in Africa during the migration season. Mahesh and I were literally standing in the middle of migrating wildebeests. The energy of that moment is something I will never forget,” she said.

As previously reported by Gulte, Rajamouli placed both lead actors amid thousands of migrating wildebeests, making it one of the most daring sequences ever attempted in Indian cinema.

Although comprehensive safety protocols and wildlife experts were present on set, Rajamouli’s fearless pursuit of realism has left fans in awe. This high-risk, high-reward approach has only heightened anticipation for Varanasi, with audiences eager to witness the filmmaker’s next cinematic spectacle.