Filmmaker SS Rajamouli received a rousing welcome from fans at the iconic Grand Rex theater in Paris, where he hosted a special masterclass and a screening of his global blockbuster ‘RRR’. The director, who was in France on a promotional spree, also watched his box office blockbuster, ‘Baahubali’ with the audience thronging the theatre.
SS Rajamouli received a warm welcome in Paris
SS Rajamouli at the Grand Rex theater in Paris
Addressing the audience at the historic venue, Rajamouli expressed his admiration for the theatre, saying, “For me it is the most beautiful theater in the world.” He then recalls his first visit to a theater and admits that he still remembers small details.
SS Rajamuli in association with James Cameron
Videos from the event saw Rajamouli in his usual black shirt and blue jeans, appearing on the big stage as his fans cheered him on. The event saw him sit down with a host for a Q and A session, where he shared his love for cinema, reflected on his memorable meeting with director James Cameron and also revealed if his film ‘Eega’ was inspired from ‘TOY STORY’.The director addressed the audience and shared his belief about cinema’s ability to overcome language and cultural barriers. “Art is one of the strongest mediums to bring people together. I’m an Indian filmmaker who speaks Telugu and I don’t know anything about French culture… and yet all these people are here to watch my film. It’s great,” he said.During the masterclass, Rajamouli recalled his interaction with Cameron, saying, “I was so starstruck watching him. He talked about how he watched RRR twice. We also talked about AI, a topic that terrifies me. He said that AI will never replace filmmaking, which I found reassuring.During the event, Rajamouli was also asked if the hit animated film ‘Toy Story’ inspired his film ‘Eega’. To this, he simply said, “No.”
Fans in Paris attend Rajamouli’s film screenings
SS Rajamouli promoted ‘Varanasi’ in Paris
Rajamouli also used the occasion to promote his upcoming film, ‘Varanasi’. Photos and videos from the theater saw audience members snapping up free tees with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra’s characters printed on them. They were also treated to other movie merchandise, which was placed on their seats before they arrived at the cinema.In a video from his visit to Paris, the director is seen thanking the audience for their support, and assuring them that he will be back with his next big venture. He said, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. A filmmaker cannot ask for more. I will definitely come back with my next film ‘Varanasi’. They always say, a filmmaker is a very selfish person and I am a very selfish person. I still want your love. Thank you very much.”The ‘Varanasi’ film handle shared the clip with the caption, “Paris…Your love makes us work even harder to bring #Varanasi to you. We promise.”The filmmaker also shared an update with fans about his next venture, ‘Varanasi’. Besides informing fans that a major part of the shooting is complete, he added, “Only the smaller scenes are left to shoot, with about 80 days of filming left to finish the project.”Rajamouli’s appearance in Paris comes after he presented ‘Baahubali. The Eternal War’ at an event held in Annecy 2026. The director was also honored with a major recognition at the Cinematheque Francaise in Paris.