Priyanka Chopra stuns as Mandakini in 'fierce' new look from 'Varanasi' - PICS

On the occasion of Priyanka Chopra's birthday, the makers unveiled a new look from the upcoming film 'Varanasi'.The first official images from the film, shared by Entertainment Weekly, offer a glimpse of Chopra in a fierce and feisty avatar as the character Mandakini, in the SS Rajamouli-directed epic. According to the report, Mandakini is described as "a fierce, globetrotting character who is strong, vulnerable and unforgettable in equal measure."Priyanka Chopra's 'Varanasi' looks unveiled on her birthdayPriyanka Chopra and Mahesh Babu to have epic dance numberThe new look sees her in an all-black avatar, rocking wild curls and a sheer ensemble for what appears to be a song sequence in the film. It remains to be seen if this look is from the much-talked-about dance sequence that the actress specifically requested Rajamouli for. She previously revealed that she asked the director for a dance number and shot a massive, high-energy scene alongside co-star Mahesh Babu.Priyanka Chopra's role in 'Varanasi''Varanasi', marks Chopra's first Indian theatrical release since 2019's 'The Sky Is Pink', will see her starring opposite Mahesh Babu in the lead role as Rudhra. He will also be seen taking on a dual role as Lord Rama for a rumoured 20-minute sequence in the film that is set to depict the epic Ramayana battle.Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran plays the film's primary antagonist, Kumbha, who is described as "dangerously unlimited in his mentality." As per the report, Chopra's Mandakini finds herself caught between the two central male characters as the story unfolds.Priyanka Chopra excited for 'Varanasi' releaseAlthough the actor has remained largely tight-lipped about the project and her role in the movie, she recently offered a small tease. During an appearance on the 'Hey Jonas' podcast, hosted by husband Nick Jonas and his brothers Kevin and Joe, Priyanka shared, “I have been working on it for about 14 months now. But SS Rajamouli is known to take that kind of time to make movies. He called me for this movie, and it’s this epic adventure around the world and in time. It has taken a minute, but I’m so excited about it. I do many amazing slow-motion jumps in it, and that’s all I can say about it."About SS Rajamouli's 'Varanasi'Varanasi marks Rajamouli's first original feature since the global success of 'RRR'. The filmmaker's latest venture is described as "an epic, action-adventure that spans thousands of years from ancient civilizations to the present day across multiple continents, with characters traversing Antarctica, Africa, and the holy city of Varanasi itself."The film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027. .Give your child the gift of confidence! Claim your exclusive TOI Masterclass spot today!