Another Varanasi leak? Viral Mahesh Babu action video surfaces online

Ever since SS Rajamouli announced Varanasi, the film has struggled to stay away from leaks. The latest to surface is a video reportedly from a major action sequence, just days before fans were expecting a special birthday update for Mahesh Babu on August 8. From the announcement glimpse and photographs from the sets to Prithviraj Sukumaran's first look, the production has repeatedly found itself at the centre of unauthorised online leaks.The video, which has gone viral across social media, is said to be from the film's much-talked-about Varanasi ghat sequence. It has caught fans' attention because of what appears to be Mahesh Babu's blood-soaked appearance, fuelling speculation that the footage belongs to one of the film's biggest action blocks.The makers, however, are yet to comment on the authenticity of the clip.The latest video comes just days after another alleged leak from the presumed Ugrabhatti Caves sequence, first teased in the character posters for Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra and briefly glimpsed in the announcement video. The image showcased an elaborate set featuring towering rock formations, carved stone pillars and extensive blue-screen installations, hinting at the large-scale VFX work planned for the sequence. The announcement video had also offered a brief glimpse of Chinnamasta Devi, making the cave sequence one of the film's most anticipated moments.The recurring leaks have become an unexpected talking point around Varanasi. Earlier, images from the sets, Prithviraj Sukumaran's look and portions of the announcement glimpse had all surfaced online before their official release, making it one of the most frequently leaked Indian films currently in production. Meanwhile, Rajamouli recently revealed fresh details about the film, describing Varanasi as a globe-spanning adventure that begins in the holy city before travelling to Antarctica, Africa and even ancient Rome through a time-travel narrative, eventually returning to Varanasi.He also confirmed that nearly 80 per cent of the shoot has been completed, with the biggest action sequences already wrapped, while filming and post-production continue simultaneously to keep the project on schedule. Starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi marks Rajamouli's first collaboration with the Telugu superstar. The filmmaker has also confirmed that key sequences are being shot using IMAX cameras to enhance the film's visual scale. The globe-trotting adventure is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027.- EndsPublished By: T Naga Maruthi AcharyaPublished On: Aug 6, 2026 14:47 IST