Priyanka Chopra calls Varanasi her emotional homecoming to Indian cinema, says "We have been filming for 14 months..."

Priyanka Chopra gives update on Varanasi

• Priyanka Chopra returns to Indian cinema with film Varanasi
• Varanasi, directed by SS Rajamouli, stars Mahesh Babu
• The film is shot for IMAX and set for April 2027 release

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Priyanka Chopra Jonas brought warmth and excitement to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Friday night, where she opened up about something clearly close to her heart — her return to Indian cinema after nearly seven years.

The global star spoke candidly about her upcoming film Varanasi, directed by SS Rajamouli and co-starring Mahesh Babu, describing the experience as both emotional and exhilarating.

For Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the project represents more than just another film. It marks a homecoming of sorts.

Having spent the past several years building an impressive career in Hollywood and across international platforms, she shared how meaningful it feels to step back into the Indian film industry.

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Speaking to Jimmy Fallon, she said, “I haven’t done an Indian movie in almost like six or seven years. This movie is called Varanasi, and it is directed by SS Rajamouli, who is one of India’s most amazingly talented directors. It is going to be an adventure, and I am very excited about it. April 27!”

Her enthusiasm was unmistakable, particularly when she spoke about collaborating with SS Rajamouli, whose larger-than-life storytelling has earned global recognition.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas also revealed just how demanding the production has been. “Oh my god! We have been filming for 14 months, and we are still filming for another six." Jimmy Fallon appeared genuinely stunned by the length of the shoot, a reaction that mirrored the audience’s amazement at the film’s scale.

Adding to the anticipation, Varanasi is being shot for IMAX screens, promising a truly cinematic spectacle. Jimmy Fallon noted, "The rumours are it’s an epic. It is IMAX!" Priyanka Chopra Jonas confirmed with pride, “Yes, we have shot it in IMAX format, so it is going to be for IMAX theatres. It is going to be great."

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In the film, Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays Mandakini opposite Mahesh Babu’s Rudhra, a character previously introduced by SS Rajamouli in striking promotional visuals.

With its reported April 2027 release, Varanasi is already generating considerable buzz.

Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra Jonas continues to balance her global commitments. She is currently seen in The Bluff, released on Prime Video on 25 February, where she takes on a physically intense role alongside Karl Urban — proof that whether in India or abroad, she continues to push herself creatively.