Filmmaker SS Rajamouli received a rapturous welcome from fans at the iconic Grand Rex theater in Paris, where he hosted a special masterclass and screening of his global blockbuster ‘RRR’. The director, who has been in France on a promotional spree, also watched his box office hit, ‘Baahubali’ with the audience gathered at the theatre.
SS Rajamouli receive 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 recalled his first visit to a theater and claimed that he still remembers minute details.
SS Rajamuli on interaction with James Cameron
Videos from the event saw Rajamouli in his usual black shirt and blue jeans, making an appearance on the big stage as his fans cheered him on. The event saw him sit down with a presenter for a question and answer session, where he shared his love of cinema, reflected on his memorable encounter with director James Cameron and also revealed whether his film ‘Eega’ was inspired by ‘TOY STORY’.The director addressed the audience and shared his belief in cinema’s ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. “Art is one of the strongest means of bringing people together. I’m an Indian filmmaker who speaks Telugu and I don’t know much about French culture… and yet all these people are here to watch my film. It’s beautiful,” he said.During the masterclass, Rajamouli recalled his interaction with Cameron, saying, “I was so starry-eyed just looking at him. He was talking about how I watched RRR twice. We also talked about AI, which is a topic that scares me. He said AI will never replace cinema, which reassured me.”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 screenings of Rajamouli films
SS Rajamouli promotes ‘Varanasi’ in Paris
Rajamouli also used the occasion to promote his upcoming film, ‘Varanasi’. Photos and videos from the theater saw audience members getting free t-shirts with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra’s characters printed on them. They also received other movie merchandise, placed in their seats before arriving at the theater.In a video of his visit to Paris, the director was seen thanking the audience for their support and assuring them of his return with his next big adventure. He said, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. A filmmaker cannot ask for more. I would definitely come back with my next film ‘Varanasi’. They always say, a filmmaker is a very sweet tooth and I am a very sweet tooth.” I want more of your love Thank you very much.”The director of the film ‘Varanasi’ shared the clip with the caption, “Paris… Your love makes us work even harder to bring you #Varanasi. We promise.”The filmmaker had also shared an update with fans about his next venture, ‘Varanasi’. In addition to informing fans that a significant portion of filming has been completed, he added, “Only the smaller scenes are left to shoot, with about 80 more days of shooting to wrap up the project.”Rajamouli’s appearance in Paris comes after he presented ‘Baahubali: The Eternal War’ at an event held during Annecy 2026. The director was also honored with a major accolade at the Cinematheque Francaise in Paris.