S.S. Rajamouli’s mega-budget action spectacle Varanasi may be one of India’s most ambitious films, but it still lacks a major international distribution partner.

Unlike Ramayana and Toxic, which have already secured global rollout deals, Varanasi has yet to announce a Hollywood studio or dedicated overseas distributor.

With an estimated budget of `1,300–1,400 crore, Varanasi cannot depend on the Indian box office alone. The film will require a massive worldwide release to recover its costs, making its international strategy one of the biggest questions surrounding the project.

The contrast with other upcoming blockbusters is striking. Geetu Mohandas’ Toxic has reportedly secured a `105 crore overseas advance from Phars Film, ensuring a wide release across key markets including the US, UK, Canada and the Gulf. Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana has partnered with Sony Pictures Entertainment for global distribution outside India and is being positioned for an unprecedented international rollout.