‘Baahubali’ to return as 3D animated film

"Baahubali" is back in the spotlight once again. The epic saga has returned to theatres in India with a re-release titled "Baahubali: The Epic", which combines both instalments — "Baahubali: The Beginning" (2015) and "Baahubali: The Conclusion" (2017) — into one 3-hour-44-minute film.

Amidst this renewed excitement, director S S Rajamouli has announced a new addition to the franchise — a 3D animated film titled "Baahubali: The Eternal War".

In a recent interview marking the re-release, Rajamouli appeared alongside lead actors Prabhas and Rana Daggubati, confirming that the 3D animation project has been in development for the past two and a half years. The initiative was taken by producer Shobu Yarlagadda to expand the "Baahubali" universe on a larger scale.

Currently busy shooting his upcoming film with "Mahesh Babu", Rajamouli revealed that "The Eternal War" is being directed by Eeshan Shukla. The production reportedly cost INR 120 crore, a figure that surprised Prabhas. "INR 120 crore! That was our initial budget for the first 'Baahubali' film," he remarked, noting that the original budget eventually rose to INR 180 crore.

However, Rajamouli clarified that the 3D animated film should not be considered the third instalment of the franchise, as a separate project is being planned for that. "We previously made a 2D animated series on Amazon based on 'Baahubali'," the filmmaker said. "This time, it will be in 3D, where audiences will see their beloved characters embark on a new journey."

The release date for « Baahubali: The Eternal War" has yet to be announced. A teaser for the upcoming 3D animation is currently being shown during the intermission of "Baahubali: The Epic" screenings.