‘Varanasi’: Is Mahesh Babu’s Lord Ram Look From SS Rajamouli’s Upcoming Epic Leaked Online? Fans React

An unverified image purports to show Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu dressed as Lord Ram for director SS Rajamouli's highly anticipated upcoming epic, Varanasi. The image quickly went viral across multiple social media platforms, sparking intense debate and speculation among fans regarding its authenticity. While neither the filmmakers nor the actor have officially confirmed the leak, the viral visual has significantly heightened anticipation for the cinematic project. ‘90 Takes, 20 Minute Breaks’: Prithviraj Sukumaran Talks About Working With SS Rajamouli for ‘Varanasi’ (Watch Video).

Mahesh Babu's Look as Lord Ram from ‘Varanasi’ Leaked Online?

The circulating image depicts Mahesh Babu in a rural or forest-like setting, dressed in traditional saffron and yellow robes indicative of an exile period. A bow is shown slung across his shoulder, capturing him in a posture that mirrors classical depictions of Lord Ram.  The image originally gained traction on platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter).

Unverified Viral Image Shows Mahesh Babu As Lord Rama

Some reports state that a similar silhouette poster appeared on a digital theatre hoarding in Guntur, adding fuel to the ongoing online speculation. Despite the massive traction, the production team has maintained silence on whether the image is an official asset or an unauthorised leak from the set.

  Netizens React to the Alleged Leak

Social media users quickly reacted to the viral visual, expressing a mixture of excitement and scepticism. A large section of the audience suspected the image might be artificial intelligence (AI) generated, pointing out the hyper-realistic textures common in AI artwork. Many fans urged others to stay calm, noting that official character designs are usually kept under strict locks by Rajamouli's production team.

"Yes, he looks amazing; can't say about his acting but he suits the character. Idk why this looks like an AI image tho," remarked one online user. The leak also drew immediate comparisons to Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming multi-part Ramayana project. Cinema enthusiasts debated how the two distinct interpretations would hold up at the box office, with some fans noting that Rajamouli's vision has the potential to deliver massive cinematic scale.

Reactions to Mahesh Babu's Alleged Viral Photo 

More About ‘Varanasi’

Varanasi marks the first collaboration between director SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu. Produced on a massive scale with an estimated budget of USD 150 million (approximately INR 1,360 crore), it is positioned as one of the most expensive Indian films ever made. The movie reportedly features a unique time-travel or mythological adventure narrative centring around an intense quest.  Rajamouli previously confirmed that Varanasi will include a dedicated 20-to-30-minute Ramayana sequence specifically filmed for IMAX formats. ‘Varanasi’: Producer SS Karthikeya Says We Built Varanasi Ghats Brick by Brick To Align With SS Rajamouli’s Vision.

Speaking about the casting choice at a prior event, the filmmaker noted that seeing Mahesh Babu in the Lord Ram attire during initial photoshoots gave him "goosebumps," describing the actor as possessing a blend of charm and calmness. Besides Mahesh Babu, the high-profile ensemble cast includes Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film is currently tracking toward an April 2027 global theatrical release.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 06, 2026 06:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).