From ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ to ‘Varanasi’: Take a look at the most expensive South Indian films made so far

In recent years, the South Indian film industry has focused on high-budget projects aiming to result in international masterpieces. Epic movies have big budgets, large-scale production, stunning visual effects, ensemble casts, and plots that capture viewers worldwide. Showcasing breathtaking foreign locations, modern equipment, and A-list actors, such films are making their way into the Indian cinema market. Higher audience expectations push filmmakers to create better-quality films, encouraging producers and directors to work harder and compete with global blockbusters.

‘Kalki 2898 AD’ currently holds the record

At present, 'Kalki 2898 AD' is considered the highest-budget South Indian film, costing around Rs 600 crore, as stated in Deccan Chronicle. Nag Ashwin helmed the future-centered magnum opus, featuring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Amitabh Bachchan in significant roles. The movie performed very well overseas, earning more than Rs 1,000 crore worldwide. The engaging story and stunning visual effects have wowed audiences, and the makers are soon working on a sequel to expand the film's universe and meet even higher expectations.

'Varanasi' is expected to set a new record

The record held by Kalki 2898 AD may soon be surpassed by the upcoming mega project 'Varanasi,' directed by S. S. Rajamouli. As per Variety, the film is reportedly being produced on an unprecedented budget estimated between Rs 1,200 crore and Rs 1,400 crore. If confirmed, it would be the most expensive film in the Indian film industry. The hefty budget shows that the production company intends to create a movie with beautiful scenery that is understandable to anyone from any background.

Star-studded cast and globe-trotting storyline

The film features Mahesh Babu in the lead role, along with Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran in important roles. Described by the creators as a globe-trotting adventure-thriller, the story seems to follow an adventurous journey through dangerous terrains and the revelation of ancient mysteries in locations across the world. With the setting shot in several foreign locales and high-end graphic sequences forming a gigantic part of the plot, ‘Varanasi’ promises to set a new benchmark of grandeur and budget in the South Indian film industry.

Other big-budget films in the top list

Other than ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ and 'Varanasi,' many South Indian movies are on the most expensive list. 'RRR,' directed by S. S. Rajamouli, was made on a budget of Rs 550 crore and went on to become an international blockbuster. '2.0,' starring Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar, also cost about Rs 400-600 crore. Another movie is ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule.' This movie features Allu Arjun, and its production budget was estimated at 400-500 crores.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”