In a recent statement, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has challenged the widely held belief that Telugu cinema has singularly placed India on the global stage. He attributes this achievement solely to S.S. Rajamouli. In an interview with The Hans India, RGV rejected the notion that an entire industry is responsible for elevating Indian cinema internationally. He stated, “I believe it is Rajamouli’s cinema, I don’t think it is Telugu cinema. We have this habit of trying to own it up.” He further elaborated, “Telugu film industry makes around 150 films. All of them don’t go there.” RGV emphasized that if Rajamouli had been born in another region, he would have excelled in that cinema instead.
He asserted, “It is HIS credit, not the industry’s.” His remarks directly challenge the regional pride surrounding South Indian cinema, especially as it gains recognition both in India and abroad. While many celebrate Tollywood’s role in shaping India’s global image, RGV maintains that this phenomenon is attributable to an individual rather than a collective movement. This discussion arises as Rajamouli’s upcoming film, Varanasi, featuring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is set for a significant theatrical release in 2027.