A title rights dispute has erupted over the upcoming multilingual film "Varanasi", directed by acclaimed filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, just days after its grand launch event in Hyderabad. The controversy centres on the legal ownership of the film's name, which Rajamouli's team announced on November 15, 2025, at Ramoji Film City.

Starring Telugu Superstar Mahesh Babu, Global Icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Malayalam Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, the project—tentatively known as "GlobeTrotter"—unveiled its first teaser, promising an epic action-adventure spanning continents and centuries. However, producer C.H. Subba Reddy of Rama Bramha Hanuma Creations has claimed prior registration of a similar title, "Vaaranasi", with the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC), potentially forcing Rajamouli's team to reconsider the moniker.

The disagreement stems from a subtle spelling variation that has become the crux of the conflict. According to registration documents with the TFCC, Subba Reddy's production house secured "Vaaranasi" in 2023 and renewed it from June 24, 2025, to July 23, 2026. Rajamouli's announcement, however, used "Varanasi"—the English transliteration of the sacred Hindu city in Uttar Pradesh—without apparent prior clearance.

Subba Reddy expressed surprise and disappointment, noting in a complaint to the film chamber that the high-profile project proceeded without informing him, leading to confusion in the industry. As of November 19, 2025, no formal legal action has been initiated, but sources indicate the TFCC may intervene if negotiations fail, adhering to protocols that prioritise the earliest valid registration.

This snag arrives amid heightened scrutiny for Rajamouli, whose launch event already drew backlash over comments perceived as disrespectful to Hindu deity Lord Hanuman, prompting complaints from groups like Rashtriya Vanara Sena and Gow Rakshak Sangh to Hyderabad police. The incidents underscore the sensitivities surrounding cultural and religious references in Indian cinema, particularly for a director known for grand narratives like "Baahubali" and "RRR".

Despite the hurdles, the film's buzz remains strong, bolstered by its stellar cast and creative team, including writer K. Vijayendra Prasad and composer M.M. Keeravani. Priyanka Chopra shared behind-the-scenes glimpses on social media, practising Telugu lines, while fans praised the teaser for its visual spectacle.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas Joins Mahesh Babu in SS Rajamouli’s Epic Action-Adventure 'Globetrotter'

As the Telugu film industry navigates this bureaucratic tangle, the outcome could set precedents for title registrations in a market flooded with ambitious pan-India projects. Industry observers suggest an amicable resolution, such as a buyout or minor rephrasing, to avoid delays, given "Varanasi" is slated for a summer 2027 release in multiple languages. For now, the dispute highlights the competitive landscape of South Indian Cinema, where intellectual property battles can eclipse even the most star-studded announcements.

Rajamouli's team has yet to issue an official statement, but the film's momentum—fuelled by Mahesh Babu's portrayal of protagonist Rudhra—ensures it remains one of the most anticipated releases ahead.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra, Kajol, Karan Johar Lead Bollywood Tributes to Zarine Khan