SS Rajamouli ‘humbled’ to receive plaque to his name alongside Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood, Quentin Tarantino
SS Rajamouli Humbled to Receive Plaque with Global Icons
SS Rajamouli humbled to receive plaque - SS Rajamouli, the acclaimed director behind the globally acclaimed films RRR and the Baahubali franchise, was deeply humbled to receive a permanent plaque bearing his name at the Institut Lumière in Lyon, France. This prestigious honor, awarded during his European tour, places him among cinematic legends such as Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood, and Quentin Tarantino on the institute's iconic 'Wall of Filmmakers' or Mur des Cinéastes. The recognition marks a significant milestone in Rajamouli's career, highlighting his growing international influence and the enduring legacy of his storytelling.
The Emotional Revelation at the Institut Lumière
Speaking about the moment, Rajamouli expressed profound gratitude in a heartfelt post. “Visited the Lumière Museum and the screening room where Eega and RRR were shown to a full house in Lyon, France. Thierry Frémaux, the director of the Institut Lumière and Cannes Film Festival, was gracious enough to welcome me. Then he said he had planned a surprise and led me through the very street where cinema was born. I was already emotional for everything that was happening around me,”
“And there is this wall full of plaques. Names of legends like Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood, Quentin Tarantino, Francis Ford Coppola… and then I noticed a plate covered with a red cloth. My mind went blank. I don’t even know what to say for the honor of having my name permanently placed on the Mur des Cinéastes, along with the greats,”
“Only gratitude. Deeply, deeply humbled. Thank you @InstitutLumiere for a memory I will carry for a lifetime,”
Rajamouli's Son Shares the Emotional Weight
SS Rajamouli's son, SS Karthikeya, accompanied him to France and shared his own reflections on social media. “One after another – after the French Cinematheque, this time where CINEMA was born, Institut Lumiére, LYON! Just to have his films EEGA & RRR screen at the place where the first shot using a cinematograph was EVER shot is so overwhelming. And SSR being honored with a plaque on their wall amongst the greats is the most emotional moment!”
“Listening to people say that they are discovering Indian cinema through his films and exploring Indian stories and culture is so gratifying! Such a satisfying and full filing trip! @ssrajamouli have really come a looong way and really excited and looking forward to the loooong journey ahead, Baba!”
Varanasi: A Highly Anticipated Project
Varanasi, one of the most awaited Indian films in recent years, is set to conclude its production by October. Rajamouli revealed that major action sequences have already been completed, with the shoot expected to wrap up in the coming months. The film, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is scheduled for a theatrical release in April 2027. This project, inspired by the city's rich cultural heritage, aims to blend Rajamouli's signature storytelling with a visually stunning portrayal of Varanasi’s spiritual and historical significance.
Global Recognition and Cultural Bridge
The honor at Institut Lumière underscores Rajamouli's role as a cultural bridge between Indian and global cinema. His films, known for their ambitious narratives and technical excellence, have consistently drawn critical acclaim and massive audiences. The inclusion of his name alongside revered directors like Scorsese and Eastwood signifies a shift in how Indian cinema is perceived on the international stage. Rajamouli’s achievements have not only elevated South Indian cinema but also paved the way for future filmmakers to gain global recognition.
About the Author
Santanu Das, a senior content producer at Hindustan Times, has spent over five years writing on films, pop culture, and film festivals. His work often highlights South Asian independent cinema, and he has covered major events like Sundance and CPH: Docx. He also contributes to the monthly column The Fault in Our Stars, where he analyzes recent films and what prevents them from reaching greatness. A graduate of Banaras Hindu University, Santanu holds a postgraduate degree in English from Jadavpur University. He is also a certified film critic on Rotten Tomatoes, further establishing his credibility in the film industry.
A passionate cinephile, Santanu Das enjoys reading and has a particular interest in works such as Aparajito, Ponyo, and The Double Life of Veronique. His favorite books include The Corrections, The God of Small Things, and A Room of One's Own. Through his writing, he continues to explore the intersection of storytelling, culture, and global cinema, bringing attention to South Asian voices in the international film landscape.