India, Aug. 9 -- Mahesh Babu got a rather dramatic birthday surprise this year. Two new stills of the superstar from SS Rajamouli's Varanasi were unveiled on his birthday, August 9, and they give us a glimpse of the mysterious Rudhra. The stills are set against the stunning landscapes of Africa and show Mahesh in a rugged, bearded look.

But the pictures are only half the story. What makes them more interesting is what Rajamouli has said about the man behind that look.

Rajamouli Says Rudhra Is Fierce But Also Vulnerable

Rudhra is not being presented as a one note action hero. According to Rajamouli, there is a much more complicated personality underneath the rugged exterior.

"Rudhra was born to fulfil a purpose much larger than himself...