“With Varanasi, SS Rajamouli Has Gone to the Next Level”: KK Senthil Kumar on Kattappa Twist and Their Enduring Bond

Acclaimed cinematographer K. K. Senthil Kumar has opened up about his long-standing creative partnership with filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli, revealing that the iconic “Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?” moment was improvised during filming — and praising Rajamouli’s upcoming project Varanasi as a leap to “the next level.”

The Kattappa Twist: An Improvised Shock

Speaking about the legendary cliffhanger from Baahubali: The Beginning, Senthil Kumar shared that the now-famous sequence — in which Kattappa stabs Baahubali — evolved organically during the shoot.

While the broad arc of the story was always part of the screenplay, certain visual and emotional elements of the scene were refined on set. Senthil explained that Rajamouli often encourages spontaneous creative decisions if they heighten drama and impact.

“That moment had to shock the audience beyond imagination,” he said, adding that camera placement, lighting intensity, and performance nuances were adjusted in real time to amplify the betrayal’s emotional weight.

The scene went on to become one of Indian cinema’s most talked-about moments, sparking nationwide debate and unprecedented anticipation for Baahubali 2: The Conclusion.

‘Varanasi’ Marks a New Leap

Though Senthil Kumar confirmed he may not be working on Rajamouli’s upcoming film Varanasi, he expressed immense pride in the director’s evolution.

“With Varanasi, he has gone to the next level,” Senthil remarked, suggesting that Rajamouli continues to push technical and narrative boundaries.

Industry insiders believe Varanasi is set to be an ambitious project with large-scale production values, continuing Rajamouli’s tradition of blending spectacle with emotionally driven storytelling.

A Bond Beyond Professional Ties

Addressing speculation about their professional separation, Senthil Kumar dismissed any notion of a rift. He emphasized that their relationship extends far beyond film sets.

“We are more like family,” he said. “Whether we work together on every project or not doesn’t change that.”

The duo’s collaboration has delivered some of Indian cinema’s most visually striking films, with Senthil’s cinematography playing a pivotal role in shaping Rajamouli’s grand cinematic vision.

A Creative Partnership That Redefined Scale

From mythological epics to high-octane action dramas, Rajamouli and Senthil Kumar have built a legacy of pushing visual storytelling standards in Indian cinema.

Even as Rajamouli explores new creative territories and Senthil takes on independent ventures, their shared history — particularly the cultural phenomenon of the Baahubali saga — remains a benchmark in filmmaking.

As fans await official details about Varanasi, one thing is clear: the admiration between director and cinematographer remains intact, and their impact on Indian cinema continues to resonate.