The business surrounding S.S. Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu’s much-awaited Varanasi is generating intense curiosity, with industry circles closely watching the film’s reported remuneration structure.
According to a highly placed industry source, Rajamouli is believed to be targeting around Rs 250 crore from the film’s overseas rights as part of his remuneration arrangement. However, achieving that valuation could be challenging, as the highest offer so far is reportedly significantly lower.
Oscar-winning composer M.M. Keeravani is also said to have secured a lucrative arrangement linked to the film’s music rights. Industry estimates suggest the value could be around Rs 50-75 crore, potentially making it one of the biggest music-rights deals associated with an Indian film.
The bigger question, however, remains Mahesh Babu’s remuneration.
Sources indicate that the OTT rights are being targeted at around Rs 500 crore, while the highest offer so far is reportedly around Rs 150 crore from a reputed leading OTT platform. The final deal could potentially settle closer to Rs 200 crore.
However, there is still no clarity on how much Mahesh Babu is receiving. It remains uncertain whether his compensation is a conventional remuneration package or whether it includes a stake in the film’s business or profits.
Sources point out that Rajamouli’s heroes have traditionally not received a proportionately large share of the profits. However, Mahesh Babu could potentially negotiate a more favourable arrangement, particularly with Namrata Mahesh Babu said to be involved in the discussions.
With the film’s business expected to reach unprecedented levels, the remuneration and rights deals surrounding Varanasi are likely to remain a major talking point in the industry.
