Varanasi: Is SS Rajamouli's film inspired by Ramayana? Here's what we know Mid-Day. Does SS Rajamouli's Varanasi have a Ramayana connection? A viral theory involving nine gemstones, Kumbhakarna and time travel has sparked curiosity. SS Rajamouli's Varanasi reportedly has a Ramayana connection, with a viral post claiming Mahesh Babu's character travels through time. SS Rajamouli recently opened up about shooting one of the challenging portions of his upcoming film Varanasi.