Rajamouli recreates Varanasi city at RFC for Mahesh Babu’s film, using detailed references and innovative set design. The result is a stunningly authentic cinematic experience.
Dumtika Editorial
March 25, 2026 · 1 min read

(Image: Dumtika Editorial)
Mahesh Babu’s much-awaited film 'Varanasi' is making headlines for its spectacular recreation of the holy city, masterminded by visionary director Rajamouli. Known for his relentless pursuit of perfection, Rajamouli’s latest endeavour showcases his commitment to authenticity and cinematic grandeur.
After back-to-back blockbusters, Rajamouli has joined forces with Mahesh Babu for 'Varanasi', setting expectations soaring among fans and the industry alike. The film’s production, handled with remarkable precision, has generated considerable buzz, particularly for its ambitious set design at Ramoji Film City (RFC).
According to sources, an expansive set covering approximately 700 by 400 feet was constructed, mirroring the real Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh but scaled down by about 30%. Every element, from buildings to architectural details, was crafted using meticulous reference images and measurements, ensuring the set resonated with the city’s true spirit. A highlight is the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, recreated with its iconic tilt, maintaining accuracy "down to its depth and angle," as reported by RT. The makers even displayed reference images across the set to guide the artisans in perfecting each detail.
A line producer revealed, “The building you see behind you is one of the major changes. It is sunken down by about 12 feet. We have the rest of the building constructed, and we have sunk it down, so when we go back to the olden era, we'll have to pull it back up, cut it down into pieces, and rearrange it.” This innovative approach underscores the team’s dedication to capturing both history and authenticity.
With anticipation building around 'Varanasi', fans can look forward to more visuals and updates as the film moves closer to its much-anticipated release.