SS Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’ Faces Backlash After Empty Seats at Mexico Comic Con Panel, Fans React
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli—known globally for blockbusters like Baahubali and RRR—has found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy. His upcoming mega-project Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, recently began its global promotional campaign at Mexico’s Comic Con (CCXP 2026), but the event has sparked debate after visuals showed empty seats and audience walkouts.
What Happened at Mexico Comic Con?
The Varanasi team showcased exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and updates at CCXP Mexico 2026, one of the world’s biggest pop culture events.
However, viral videos and images from the panel revealed:
- Rows of empty seats in the auditorium
- Some attendees reportedly walking out during the presentation
- A visibly lower turnout than expected for such a high-profile film
This was surprising, especially considering Rajamouli’s strong global reputation after RRR.
Why Are Fans Calling It “Embarrassing”?
Social media reactions were quick and intense. Many users expressed disappointment, calling the situation:
- “Embarrassing for Indian cinema”
- “Unexpected for a Rajamouli film”
- “Proof that global promotion doesn’t guarantee audience interest”
The criticism largely stems from the contrast between:
👉 Rajamouli’s global success
👉 And the relatively muted response at the event
Not Everyone Agrees
While some criticized the turnout, others defended the film and the team:
- Some fans pointed out scheduling clashes with bigger panels
- Others claimed the audience may have been standing elsewhere instead of seated
- A few argued that early promotional events don’t reflect final audience interest
👉 In short, the situation may not be as negative as it appears in viral clips.
About ‘Varanasi’: A Massive Global Project
Varanasi is one of the most ambitious Indian films in production.
Key details:
- Directed by S. S. Rajamouli
- Stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran
- Expected release: 2027
- Genre: Epic global adventure with mythological elements
The film was officially introduced to international audiences through a special panel and exclusive footage showcase
What Could Be the Real Reason Behind Low Turnout?
Experts and fans are pointing to several possible reasons:
1. Event Scheduling Issues
CCXP features multiple big panels simultaneously, dividing audience attention.
2. Early Promotion Stage
The film is still in production, so hype may not have peaked yet.
3. Cultural Gap
International audiences may not yet connect with the film’s theme or cast.
4. Overhyped Expectations
Rajamouli’s previous success may have set unrealistically high expectations.
Does This Affect ‘Varanasi’ Success?
Not necessarily.
History shows:
- Many films with slow promotional starts still become huge hits
- Rajamouli’s brand remains extremely strong globally
- The film has already generated massive buzz in India
👉 One event does not define the film’s future.
Rajamouli’s Global Influence Still Strong
Despite this controversy, Rajamouli continues to be one of India’s most influential filmmakers.
At the same event, he:
- Spoke about Baahubali’s global inspirations
- Highlighted RRR’s worldwide impact
- Positioned Varanasi as his next big international project
Conclusion
The empty seats at Varanasi’s Mexico Comic Con panel have sparked debate, but they tell only part of the story.
👉 While some see it as a setback, others view it as a minor hiccup in a massive global campaign.
With a star-studded cast and Rajamouli at the helm, Varanasi remains one of the most anticipated films of 2027.
The real verdict will come not from one event—but from the audience worldwide when the film finally releases.