Prabhas Returns? “Baahubali 3” Confirmed by S.S. Rajamouli — Epic Saga Expands

Director S.S. Rajamouli officially affirms the next chapter in the Mahishmati legend as an ambitious ₹120 crore animated feature leads into the much-awaited Baahubali 3.

According to sources, the highly anticipated Baahubali 3 has been formally confirmed by director S.S. Rajamouli during the promotion of the upcoming remastered film. The announcement includes a new ₹120 crore 3D-animated spin-off project that ties into the Baahubali universe and paves the way for what comes next.

Hyderabad, India (Star Struck Times) — In a move that sent ripples across the film industry and fan communities alike, veteran director S.S. Rajamouli, speaking at a media event ahead of the release of Baahubali: The Epic, confirmed that Baahubali 3 is officially in the works. At the same time, Rajamouli revealed that the next big entry in the Mahishmati lore will begin with a high-budget animated venture titled Baahubali: The Eternal War, with an estimated budget of ₹120 crore.

The announcement marks a significant shift from earlier statements that the third part would simply follow the first two. The director clarified that the animation project is not Baahubali 3, but a separate expansion of the Baahubali universe — while simultaneously reaffirming that Baahubali 3 is “for sure” happening.

Rajamouli announced that the two-part saga is being re-released as Baahubali: The Epic on 31 October 2025, ahead of the full continuation of the story.

“The beginning of many journeys. Countless memories. Endless inspiration,” Rajamouli wrote on his X handle, as he shared the poster of the new version. “Marking this special milestone with #BaahubaliTheEpic…”

The star of the franchise, Prabhas, who rose to pan-India stardom thanks to Baahubali, remains deeply associated with the future chapter. Although he had earlier expressed uncertainty about a Baahubali 3, saying it “depends on [Rajamouli’s] vision and timing”, this week’s announcement signals a clearer path forward.

Fan reaction across social media has been instantaneous. One X user posted: “OMG can’t wait… Personally I loved Baahubali 2 more.” On a Reddit forum, one fan wrote:

“Baahubali part 1 is re-releasing on July 10 to celebrate its 10th anniversary…”

With the original two films having collectively generated massive box-office returns and changed the landscape of Indian cinema, the confirmation of a third chapter and an expanded universe is seen as a major development.

Rajamouli explained that the animation project allows the creative team to explore new facets of the Baahubali saga, including stories from beyond the original timeline, new kingdoms, and possibly new protagonists. Sources suggest that pre-production is already underway, with the writing team finalising story outlines.

Industry analysts note that by verifying Baahubali 3, the makers are affirming the franchise’s longevity and viability in the age of pan-India cinema and global releases. One insider said the animation film “is a bridge to Part 3” and will help build narrative momentum.

While no casting details, official release date, or start of principal photography for Baahubali 3 have been provided yet, fans are already speculating about the return of Prabhas as Amarendra or Mahendra Baahubali and the involvement of key cast members from the first two films. The last official statement indicated that filming would not begin before 2026 or later.

As the countdown begins for the re-release of Baahubali: The Epic this week, the announcement of Baahubali 3 has set the blogosphere and OTT forums abuzz. The move also raises questions about how the story will evolve, how the characters will be re-imagined, and how the filmmakers plan to raise the cinematic bar further.

FAQs

Q. Will Prabhas return in Baahubali 3?
A. While not officially confirmed, Prabhas remains closely tied to the franchise. Past reports suggested his involvement was probable, pending Rajamouli’s script development.
Q. When will Baahubali 3 release?
A. No release date has been announced yet. Earlier sources indicated that filming would start post-2026, meaning a 2027 or later release is more realistic.
Q. What is the ₹120 crore animated film?
A. The animation, titled Baahubali: The Eternal War, is a 3-D project intended to expand the universe and is separate from the live-action Baahubali 3.

Stay tuned for further updates as more details emerge about Baahubali 3, new cast announcements, production timelines and teaser drops.