SS Rajamouli just unveiled the biggest surprise for Baahubali fans—a high-budget 3D animated film titled Baahubali: The Eternal War. During a promotional interview with Prabhas and Rana Daggubati, the legendary director revealed details about this ambitious project that’s been secretly in development for over two years.
Baahubali: SS Rajamouli’s Eternal War – Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Film Title | Baahubali: The Eternal War |
| Format | 3D Animated Feature |
| Budget | ₹120 Crore |
| Director Universe | SS Rajamouli |
| Producer | Shobu Yarlagadda |
| Development Time | 2.5+ years |
| Animation Studio | Team behind Arcane anime |
| Teaser Release | During Baahubali: The Epic interval |
| Type | Continuation, not Baahubali 3 |
| Status | In production |
What Is Baahubali: The Eternal War?
Contrary to fan speculation, The Eternal War isn’t Baahubali 3. Instead, it’s a 3D animated continuation of the Baahubali universe that explores untold stories within the franchise’s rich mythology.
SS Rajamouli explained: “It’s not Baahubali 3, but it’s a continuation of the world of Baahubali. This is a very, very high 3D animation.”
Producer Shobu Yarlagadda has been quietly developing this project for over two and a half years, assembling the animation studio responsible for the critically acclaimed anime series Arcane. That pedigree alone signals this won’t be your typical animated feature—expect cinematic quality that rivals Hollywood’s best.
Prabhas’s Hilarious Budget Reaction
When Rajamouli announced the ₹120 crore budget, Prabhas couldn’t help but take a playful dig at their journey. The superstar quipped: “120 crores? That was our first part of Baahubali’s planning budget!”
His joke highlighted how far Indian cinema’s ambitions have grown. What once seemed extravagant for live-action now represents standard investment for world-class animation. For fans who followed Prabhas’s incredible transformation through the original films, this moment encapsulated the franchise’s evolution.
Why This Animation Film Matters
Global Animation Standards
By partnering with the studio behind Arcane—one of the most visually stunning animated series ever created—Rajamouli ensures The Eternal War meets international quality benchmarks. This isn’t just an Indian animated film; it’s a globally competitive project.
Expanding the Baahubali Universe
The original two films only scratched the surface of Mahishmati’s history. An animated format allows unlimited creative possibilities:
- Ancient wars and legendary battles
- Backstories of beloved characters
- Mythological elements too complex for live-action
- Expanded world-building beyond the kingdom
Pushing Indian Animation Forward
With a ₹120 crore investment, this film could revolutionize how India approaches animated cinema. It signals that homegrown productions can compete with Disney, Pixar, and DreamWorks on storytelling and technical execution.
When Will We See The Eternal War?
The teaser debuts during the interval of Baahubali: The Epic—the theatrical re-release combining both original films into a single 3-hour, 44-minute epic experience. This re-release hits cinemas on October 31, 2025.
Rajamouli strategically chose this moment to unveil the animation project, knowing hardcore fans would pack theaters for the nostalgia trip. Both Prabhas and Rana Daggubati reportedly watched the teaser and were left “amazed by the animation film’s vision, scale, and grandeur.”
What About Baahubali 3?
Don’t worry—Rajamouli confirmed the live-action trilogy will eventually happen. He teased: “Baahubali 3, the ultimate thing is there.”
While no timeline exists yet, the director’s currently focused on SSMB29 starring Mahesh Babu. Fans can expect Baahubali 3 sometime in the future once Rajamouli completes his existing commitments. The official announcement will likely generate unprecedented hype whenever it arrives.
The Strategic Vision Behind Animation
Creating an animated Baahubali film serves multiple purposes:
Keeps the franchise alive while Rajamouli works on other projects
Tests new storytelling formats within the established universe
Attracts younger audiences who consume more animation
Preserves actors’ younger likenesses through voice work
Enables impossible action sequences beyond live-action limits
This approach mirrors what Marvel did with What If…? on Disney+—exploring alternate realities and untold stories without committing to full live-action productions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baahubali: The Eternal War replacing Baahubali 3?
No, absolutely not. The Eternal War is a separate 3D animated film that expands the Baahubali universe through untold stories and mythology. SS Rajamouli confirmed that Baahubali 3—the live-action conclusion to the trilogy—will definitely happen in the future. The animated film serves as a bridge project to keep the franchise active while Rajamouli completes other commitments like SSMB29 with Mahesh Babu. Think of it as bonus content rather than a replacement.
Will Prabhas and Rana Daggubati voice their characters in the animated film?
While SS Rajamouli hasn’t officially confirmed voice cast details yet, it’s highly likely that Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, and other original cast members will lend their voices to their respective characters. This approach maintains continuity and authenticity that fans expect. Both actors have already seen the teaser and expressed amazement at the project’s scale, suggesting their involvement. Official announcements about voice casting should come closer to the film’s release date.
