India’s cinematic ambition is reaching the ends of the Earth—literally.
Director S. S. Rajamouli’s upcoming magnum opus Varanasi, starring Priyanka Chopra and Mahesh Babu, is set to become the first Indian film to be shot in Antarctica, marking a groundbreaking moment in the industry.
The subtle confirmation came when Priyanka Chopra responded to Mahesh Babu on social media, saying, “See you soon in Antarctica.” While brief, the remark has effectively confirmed that the team is heading to the icy continent for filming.
Reports suggest that portions of the shoot may take place at the Ross Ice Shelf, one of the most extreme and visually stunning locations on Earth, known for its vast frozen landscapes and sub-zero conditions.
Globally, only a handful of films have ever attempted shooting in Antarctica, making Varanasi just the fourth feature film in the world to do so. This places the project in an elite category of cinematic ventures that push both creative and physical boundaries. With such an ambitious move, Varanasi is not just aiming for scale but for history.