Renowned Indian filmmaker SS Rajamouli is currently in Japan to promote his latest project, the Netflix documentary titled RRR: Behind & Beyond.

This behind-the-scenes film gives fans a deeper look into the making of the blockbuster movie RRR, offering exclusive insights into what went on during its production. The documentary hit theaters on April 11, 2025, with Japanese subtitles, and has already been receiving a positive response from audiences in Japan.

While Rajamouli is busy with promotions overseas, the rest of the team from his upcoming project, SSMB 29, is currently on a short break. Leading actor Mahesh Babu has taken some time off and traveled to Europe for a vacation with his family. Meanwhile, global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who is also part of the movie, has returned to Los Angeles.

Rajamouli isn’t alone on this promotional tour. He is accompanied by his son, Karthikeya, who often plays a key role in the planning and coordination of his father's projects. Together, they have been attending special screenings of the documentary in Japan, interacting with fans and local media, and collecting feedback on how the documentary is being received. This kind of direct interaction helps them better understand the international audience’s connection with Indian cinema.

The move to promote the documentary in Japan is a strategic one. In recent years, Japanese audiences have shown growing interest in Telugu cinema, especially after the massive success of Rajamouli’s Baahubali series and, more recently, RRR. These films have developed a strong fan base in the country, making Japan one of the key international markets for Telugu filmmakers.

Recognizing this increasing popularity, more and more filmmakers from the Telugu industry are now actively promoting their films in Japan. For instance, after the overwhelming response to Baahubali and RRR, director Nag Ashwin also took his upcoming sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD to Japan to build anticipation. Similarly, Jr NTR and director Koratala Siva recently visited Japan to promote their film Devara, which also saw a strong start at the Japanese box office.

This trend shows that Japanese audiences are becoming more open to Indian stories, culture, and cinematic style. The combination of powerful storytelling, high-octane action, and emotionally-driven narratives in Telugu films seems to be striking a chord with viewers in Japan.

In this context, Rajamouli’s decision to bring RRR: Behind & Beyond to Japan makes perfect sense. The documentary offers something more than just entertainment—it gives fans a rare look at what went into creating a film as ambitious and grand as RRR. From intense action sequences to complex set designs, from cast and crew interviews to behind-the-scenes challenges, the documentary covers a wide range of content that appeals to both cinema lovers and casual fans alike.

What’s even more heartening is how Rajamouli is making an effort to personally connect with his fans abroad. At the screenings in Japan, he has been talking to the audience, answering their questions, and listening to their opinions about the documentary and the original film. This kind of fan engagement not only builds stronger loyalty among viewers but also helps Indian cinema gain more respect on the global stage.

This growing bond between Indian filmmakers and Japanese audiences is a sign of how cinema is becoming more global than ever. Language and geography are no longer barriers when it comes to storytelling. Great stories can travel across continents, and thanks to platforms like Netflix, they can reach audiences in their own languages through subtitles or dubbing.

It’s also worth noting that the Japanese appreciation for detailed craftsmanship and visual storytelling aligns well with the strengths of Rajamouli’s filmmaking style. His attention to detail, larger-than-life visuals, and emotionally rich storytelling are some of the very traits that resonate with viewers in Japan.

As Indian cinema continues to expand its footprint in international markets, such efforts from directors like Rajamouli are paving the way for a new wave of cultural exchange. By introducing Indian films and documentaries to global audiences in a thoughtful, strategic way, filmmakers are not just promoting their own work—they’re helping to bring the richness of Indian cinema to the world.

In summary, SS Rajamouli's trip to Japan for the promotion of RRR: Behind & Beyond is more than just a marketing tour. It represents a larger movement within the Indian film industry—one that is increasingly global in outlook, inclusive in its approach, and ambitious in its reach. With fans showing excitement and appreciation in Japan, it’s clear that Telugu cinema, and Indian cinema at large, is steadily becoming a force to be reckoned with on the world stage.