The makers of SS Rajamouli’s highly anticipated next film, tentatively titled ‘Globe Trotter’, unveiled the first-look poster of Prithviraj Sukumaran on Friday. The poster introduces the Malayalam superstar as Kumbha, the film’s menacing antagonist.
The reveal, shared by both Rajamouli and co-star Mahesh Babu on social media, sent fans into a frenzy, marking one of the most discussed moments in Indian cinema this week.
Mahesh Babu shares Kumbha’s first look
Actor Mahesh Babu, who plays the lead in the film, shared the intense poster on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Stood on the other side… time to meet you head-on KUMBHA.” The line hinted at a monumental face-off between Mahesh’s protagonist and Prithviraj’s villainous character, setting the tone for what is expected to be an epic cinematic rivalry.
The poster features Prithviraj in a rugged, battle-worn look with fierce eyes, standing against a desolate backdrop. His character, Kumbha, exudes power and danger, evoking intrigue about his role in the globe-spanning narrative Rajamouli is known to craft.
Rajamouli praises Prithviraj’s performance
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli, known for delivering global blockbusters like Baahubali and RRR, also took to X to share his admiration for Prithviraj’s performance. He wrote, “After canning the first shot with Prithvi, I walked up to him and said you are one of the finest actors I’ve ever known. Bringing life to this sinister, ruthless, powerful antagonist KUMBHA was creatively very satisfying. Thank you Prithvi for slipping into his chair literally.”
Rajamouli’s words sparked immense excitement among fans, who began speculating that Globe Trotter could mark one of the most ambitious cinematic ventures in his career.
A star-studded collaboration
Apart from Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film also stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas in a pivotal role. This marks her return to Indian cinema after a hiatus, making Globe Trotter one of the most anticipated films of 2025.
The film, currently referred to as #SSMB29, has been under development for over two years. Sources close to the production describe it as an “action-adventure drama set across continents,” blending mythological undertones with Rajamouli’s signature grandeur.
Rajamouli’s first film after ‘RRR’
Globe Trotter is Rajamouli’s next big directorial venture following the monumental success of RRR (2022), which won global acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Original Song (‘Naatu Naatu’). The film elevated Indian cinema’s global profile and created high expectations for Rajamouli’s next project.
Industry watchers have noted that Globe Trotter is not just a film but a cinematic event in the making. The collaboration between Mahesh Babu and Rajamouli marks their first-ever film together—something fans have awaited for years.
Massive buzz across the film industry
The unveiling of Prithviraj’s look has generated widespread excitement across industries. Fans from the Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi film sectors flooded social media with praise for the actor’s transformation and Rajamouli’s vision.
On X, hashtags like #GlobeTrotter, #Kumbha, and #SSMB29 began trending within hours of the reveal. Many fans drew parallels between Kumbha and Rajamouli’s iconic villains like Bhallaladeva from Baahubali and British officer Scott Buxton from RRR, predicting that Kumbha might redefine the archetype of an Indian cinematic antagonist.
Awaiting the title and teaser
While the team has not yet revealed the film’s final title, sources indicate that an official teaser and title announcement could be made in December 2025. The production has reportedly completed major international schedules, including shoots in Africa, Europe, and Southeast Asia, featuring large-scale action sequences choreographed by top stunt coordinators.
Fans speculate that Globe Trotter might draw inspiration from world mythologies and historical conflicts, in line with Rajamouli’s storytelling style that merges fantasy with realism.
The excitement builds
With Prithviraj Sukumaran joining the cast, the film’s ensemble has reached a new level of prestige. The actor, who recently impressed audiences with his performances in Aadujeevitham and Kaduva, is expected to bring intense gravitas to Kumbha’s character.
For Mahesh Babu, Globe Trotter is a crucial milestone — marking his international debut and his first film with India’s most celebrated director.
As anticipation builds, Rajamouli’s fans across the world await what promises to be a cinematic spectacle. The filmmaker, known for redefining Indian storytelling, seems poised once again to deliver a global blockbuster that unites star power, scale, and storytelling mastery.