Two photographs of Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s character from SS Rajamouli’s “Varanasi” were released on Saturday to mark the actor’s birthday.

“Varanasi” spans thousands of years and crosses multiple continents, with locations ranging from Antarctica to Africa to the titular Indian city. Mahesh Babu plays the dual role of the protagonist Rudhra and the Hindu god Rama, Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays a character called Mandakini and the main antagonist Kumbha is played by Prithviraj Sukumaran.

The character of Mandakini required specific qualities that Rajamouli believes Chopra Jonas uniquely possesses. “She can be a really amazing girl and she has to be really vulnerable. [There are] There are very few actors who can do both things in the same character,” he had said. Variety. “She did a fantastic job and I’m very happy to have her on board.”

The film marks Chopra Jonas’ return to Indian cinema after a series of Hollywood projects including “Citadel” and “The Matrix Resurrections.” She has described the production as defining her career. “If there was any way to come back to Indian cinema, it would be with the most important Indian film being made, and that undertaking is this film,” he says. “I think Sir’s vision is unlike any other in this country or abroad. His cohort, if I may say so, are the Spielbergs of the world, the Nolans of the world, the Finchers of the world.”

“Varanasi” is Rajamouli’s follow-up to the Academy Award-winning “RRR.” MM Keeravani, who won the Oscar for “Naatu Naatu” from “RRR”, returns to compose the music for the new film.

“Varanasi” opens in theaters around the world on April 7, 2027.