Karan Johar reveals how his obsession with S S Rajamouli led to the iconic Baahubali partnership

S.S. Rajamouli, Karan Johar

The Baahubali franchise continues to be one of the most defining milestones in Indian cinema. Now, with Baahubali: The Epic—a re-edited and remastered version of both chapters—set to hit theatres this month, the story behind how Karan Johar joined forces with S.S. Rajamouli has once again taken the spotlight.

In a candid conversation with Komal Nahta on his podcast Game Changers: The Producer Series, Karan Johar revealed that he was the one who initiated the partnership.

“I approached him. I was obsessed with Rajamouli from even before,” Karan said, admitting that his deep admiration for the filmmaker pushed him to make the first move.

Rana Daggubati played the bridge between Karan Johar and S.S. Rajamouli

Karan Johar went on to explain how their collaboration actually came together, crediting actor Rana Daggubati for making the crucial connection.

“Until that time, people from our cinema weren't even aware of the genius of Rajamouli, I knew. I kept asking Rana about Baahubali. Then, he arranged a meeting with Rajamouli sir,” recalled Karan.

That meeting, as fate would have it, turned out to be the beginning of one of the most successful and iconic partnerships in modern Indian cinema. The collaboration not only bridged the gap between South and Hindi film industries but also changed the way Indian audiences viewed large-scale storytelling.

Karan Johar calls Baahubali a turning point for Indian cinema

Karan Johar further praised S.S. Rajamouli’s earlier works, especially Makkhi, which he believes didn’t get the recognition it deserved.

“A Film that didn’t work for Rajamouli sir in Hindi was Makkhi. According to me, it is one of the best films ever made. Makkhi wasn’t marketed properly. That's why I told him that I think what you've made is spectacular, it's the biggest motion picture of India, and I would love to position it. I was always a big fan, and I was very excited about presenting Baahubali. That was in many ways a game changer,” Karan said.

His words reflect not just admiration but also a sense of pride in having played a part in a project that reshaped the landscape of Indian filmmaking.

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Baahubali: The Epic to release in premium formats this month

By combining the two films with improved visuals, restored scenes, and technological advancements, Baahubali: The Epic is being marketed as a single-film adaptation of the saga. On October 31, 2025, it will be released in theaters in formats such as IMAX, 4DX, D-Box, Dolby Cinema, and EPIQ. The movie will be available in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam.

The legacy of Baahubali—and the collaboration between Karan Johar and S.S. Rajamouli—continues to inspire filmmakers of all generations as fans prepare for this cinematic celebration.

Also read: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta meets Kantara Chapter 1 team, praises film’s celebration of Indian culture

FAQs1. What is Baahubali: The Epic?
Baahubali: The Epic is a remastered version combining both Baahubali films with restored scenes and enhanced visuals, releasing in theatres on October 31, 2025.

2. How did Karan Johar and S.S. Rajamouli’s collaboration begin?
Karan Johar personally approached S.S. Rajamouli after being deeply impressed by his work. Actor Rana Daggubati helped facilitate their meeting.

3. Why does Karan Johar call Baahubali a game changer?
Karan Johar believes Baahubali redefined Indian cinema’s scale, storytelling, and global reach, bridging industries and audiences nationwide.