After Ranveer Singh, Prabhas walks out of PVCU? Fresh setback for Prasanth Varma

In Telugu cinema, filmmaker Prasanth Varma has long been seen as a young director chasing scale - blending mythology, fantasy and superhero elements into what he calls a connected cinematic world. But lately, conversations around the ambitious Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) have shifted from vision to volatility.

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Mythological Dream Project in Limbo?

According to a Gulte report, Prabhas was expected to headline a mythological drama tentatively titled Baka, playing the demon Bakasura. The project was reportedly backed by Mythri Movie Makers, with even a test shoot said to have taken place a few months ago.

However, fresh industry chatter suggests that Prabhas was not entirely convinced after the shoot and has stepped away from the venture. While neither the actor nor the director has issued an official statement, the buzz indicates that the film may no longer move forward.

If true, this would follow earlier reports surrounding Ranveer Singh’s Brahma Rakshasa and the much-talked-about debut project of Nandamuri Mokshagna, both of which were linked to Varma’s expanding universe at different points.

Box Office Tremors and Shifting Priorities

The reported exit also comes amid discussions about The Raja Saab. The 2026 release, headlined by Prabhas, is described as a major box office flop. Despite a promising opening, it reportedly managed to recover only about 36% of its estimated ₹400 crore budget, making it one of the most significant financial setbacks in recent Tollywood memory.

Interestingly, the Prabhas–Varma film was earlier speculated to begin before sequels to Kalki 2898 AD and Salaar, adding to the surprise around this development.

Must Read: Prasanth Varma breaks silence on Rs 20-crore feud with HanuMan producer

What’s Next for PVCU?

Varma’s last theatrical outing, Hanu-Man, released on January 12, 2024, and laid the foundation for PVCU. His next confirmed project is Jai Hanuman, a sequel centred on Lord Hanuman, starring Rishab Shetty and produced by Mythri Movie Makers’ Naveen Yerneni and Y Ravi Shankar.

Whether PVCU regains momentum or faces further reshuffles remains to be seen.