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News18
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Mahesh Babu Ditches Body Double For SS Rajamouli's Next, Performs Own Stunts
Last Updated: SSMB29, directed by SS Rajamouli, stars Mahesh Babu in a globe-trotting adventure with high-risk action sequences. Mahesh Babu is set to take on a more physically demanding role in his much-anticipated collaboration with SS Rajamouli. As per recent reports, the actor will perform his own high-octane stunts in SSMB29, ditching the use of a body double. Earlier, this was done by Prabhas and Ram Charan as they also took on their own action sequences while working with Rajamouli in previous films. Touted as a globe-trotting action-adventure, SSMB29 is shaping up to be one of Telugu cinema's most ambitious projects. The film is being shot across various locations in India and abroad, with the scale and vision expected from a Rajamouli directorial. According to Telugu Cinema, Mahesh Babu's decision to handle the action scenes himself is intended to bring more authenticity to the film's thrilling moments. The filmmakers reportedly want Mahesh to be front and centre in all the action, rather than relying heavily on stunt doubles. In a related update, acclaimed cinematographer Senthil Kumar, known for his work in Magadheera, Baahubali: The Beginning, and RR, has revealed that he will not be part of this film. Speaking to Telugu 360, Kumar said, 'It's Rajamouli's call. He wanted to try someone new for SSMB29, which is why I'm not working as the cinematographer." Meanwhile, the production is reportedly moving ahead at a brisk pace, though the makers have kept most details tightly under wraps. A Deccan Chronicle report mentioned that Mahesh Babu will feature in a fast-paced solo dance number, shot on a large marketplace set built on the outskirts of Hyderabad. In another interesting development, Priyanka Chopra has filmed a special scene in the movie that includes the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance. This was confirmed by the choreographer via an Instagram post. Meanwhile, SS Rajamouli has dropped cinematographer Senthil Kumar from SSMB19. Though the two worked together on several of Rajamouli's blockbusters, including RRR and Baahubali, they will not be working together for SSMB29. Recently, Kumar confirmed the same and revealed that Rajamouli decided to move ahead with someone else. 'It was Rajamouli's call. He wanted to try someone else. People want to do different films with different people, right? So it is a good break," Senthil Kumar told Telugu360. The cinematographer also clarified that the decision has not impacted his equation with Rajamouli. 'We've been working together since 2003, but we didn't always do films back-to-back. There were breaks earlier too. I couldn't do 'Maryada Ramanna' or 'Vikramarkudu' because I was working on other projects. Gaps have happened before also, but the relationship continues," he added. First Published: July 16, 2025, 13:17 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'SSMB29' update: Mahesh Babu to perform majority of his own stunts in the SS Rajamouli directorial
Picture Credit: Instagram Superstar Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli are working on the upcoming globe-trotting action adventure, tentatively named 'SSMB29'. Known for Rajamouli incorporating grand visuals and authenticity to his shoots, the latest reports suggest that the lead actor would be going the extra mile for this high-octane entertainer. According to a recent report by Telugu Cinema, after Prabhas in 'Baahubali' and Ram Charan in 'RRR', the 'Guntur Kaaram' actor will also forego a body double for some of the film's most dangerous action scenes, reportedly to be able to have more reality and impact in the scenes. The decision to minimise stunt doubles is said to be part of SS Rajamouli's larger vision for the film, keeping Mahesh at the heart of the adrenaline-filled moments. However, these reports are yet to be confirmed by the filmmakers or Mahesh himself. Film to feature a Mahesh Babu solo dance number 'SSMB29' will also feature Mahesh Babu's dancing skills. According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, Mahesh Babu will be performing an upbeat solo dance number similar to his popular song 'Kurchi Madathapetti.' To shoot this, a huge set in the form of a busy marketplace has been set up on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The film is shaping up as a grand-scale jungle adventure thriller with mythological elements inspired by Lord Hanuman and Hollywood's Indiana Jones. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These things are considered normal in Iceland - View listing Novelodge Undo Mahesh Babu's speculated look Mahesh Babu's new look for 'SSMB29' features long curly hair and a heavy beard. He has gone through an intense transformation, keeping the bulky body of the character. The film also stars Bollywood's Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran in key roles, upping the pan-Indian appeal of the project. Production had recently moved to shoot a major schedule in Odisha after completing work in Hyderabad. However, the next scheduled filming in Kenya has reportedly been put on hold due to ongoing civil unrest and protests in the region, which have caused safety concerns, as per a Mid-day report. Consequently, director Rajamouli is exploring alternative locations in Tanzania and South Africa.
Pink Villa
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
SSMB29: Mahesh Babu goes Prabhas way, skips use of body double for stunts in SS Rajamouli's magnum opus
All eyes are on SSMB29, as it is gearing up to be one of a kind films in Telugu cinema. Directed by the creative genius, SS Rajamouli, the project has been tagged as a globe-trotting adventure by many. The movie has been shot across different locations in India and even outside the country. Will Mahesh Babu shoot his own stunts for SSMB29? According to a Telugu Cinema report, Mahesh Babu is said to be following in the footsteps of actors like Prabhas and Ram Charan, who have previously worked with SS Rajamouli. Well, the Guntur Kaaram star would minimize the use of stunt doubles for the globe-trotting adventure and take on some high-risk action sequences himself. The idea behind this choice is to keep Mahesh at the centre of all these thrilling scenes that are being shot. However, these are merely reports at the moment, and it remains to be confirmed from the makers' or actor's side yet. Did SS Rajamouli replace his oldest cinematographer for SSMB29? Notable cinematographer Senthik Kumar, who's worked with SS Rajamouli in a number of films like Magadheera, Baahubali: The Beginning, and RRR, recently revealed not being a part of SSMB29. Speaking with Telugu 360, he explained the reason behind his absence and said, 'It's Rajamouli's call. He wanted to try someone new for SSMB29, which is why I'm not working as the cinematographer.' Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra shot extensive dance sequences for the film While the makers have kept the status of the film's shooting under wraps, a report by Deccan Chronicle revealed that Mahesh Babu would be performing a solo and racy dance number in the movie. For this purpose, a large-scale set has been created, replicating a marketplace in the outskirts of Hyderabad. On the other hand, Priyanka Chopra has shot a scene of Mayurbhanj Chhau dance in the movie. This was confirmed by the choreographer himself with a post on Instagram.
Time of India
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Has Anirudh Ravichander hiked his fees and demanded a staggering amount for future Telugu projects? Here is what we know
Picture Credit: Instagram Anirudh Ravichander has become one of the most sought-after composers, celebrated for his foot-tapping numbers and emotionally charged scores. With his increasing popularity, the music sensation is also reportedly upping his game in terms of remuneration. As reported by Telugu Cinema, Anirudh has reportedly raised his fee for Telugu films, especially with everything lined up in the next few months. The composer is now selective with Telugu films Rumour has it that he is charging around Rs 12 crore for 'The Paradise', where he will work with Nani, starring in the film directed by Srikanth Odela. Moreover, according to the report, Anirudh has plans to demand Rs 15 crore moving forward for any Telugu films he signs, ranking him amongst the highest-paid composers in Indian cinema at this time. It said that the musician plans to now limit himself to select gigs in Telugu films, which are powerful gigs that are worthy of his new brand and the audience he now has. It is imperative to mention that no official confirmation has been made from Anirudh's camp regarding the hike. Anirudh's upcoming projects When it comes to work, Anirudh is still on a dream run. His latest track, 'Chikitu' and 'Monica' from Rajinikanth 's 'Coolie' became an instant viral track that fans are now looking forward to the full soundtrack. Anirudh is also preparing to work on 'Jana Nayagan', Thalapathy Vijay 's last film before his future political career. Given their previous musical collaborations including 'Kaththi', 'Master', 'Beast,' and 'Leo', the expectations for the album are sky high. Aside from 'The Paradise' and 'Coolie', Anirudh is composing for 'Kingdom' starring Vijay Deverakonda , 'Madharasi' with Sivakarthikeyan, 'Jailer 2' featuring Rajinikanth.
Khaleej Times
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Veteran Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao dies at 83
Veteran actor and former lawmaker Kota Srinivasa Rao, best known for his roles as the antagonist in many Telugu and Tamil blockbusters, died on July 13 at the age of 83. Prominent movies in which Rao acted include Attarintiki Daredi, Athadu, Simhadri, Gabbar Singh and Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule in Telugu, Saamy, Ko, Thirupachi and Kuthu in Tamil and the Bollywood hits Sarkar, Raktha Charitra and Raktha Charitra 2. Several political leaders, film stars and friends arrived at his residence to pay their last respects. From Tollywood megastar Chiranjeevi to Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, many were seen offering condolences to Rao's family. Actor Prakash Raj also visited Rao's residence to pay his tribute to the late actor. Film producer Allu Arvind, father of superstar Allu Arjun, also visited the grieving family. Speaking to the media, Arvind said, "Kota Srinivasa Rao was very close to our family.... I always looked forward to spending time with him because he was such a jovial person. His loss is a loss to our family. I wish and pray that his soul rest in peace." Tributes began pouring in from actors, filmmakers, politicians, and fans. Chiranjeevi called him a "multifaceted genius" and shared a long note on X (formerly Twitter), remembering his strong screen presence and the "void" his death has left behind. Vishnu Manchu also shared an emotional post on X: "My heart is heavy with the loss of Sri. Kota Srinivas garu. A phenomenal actor, an unmatched talent, and a man whose presence lit up every frame he was in. Whether it was a serious role, a villain, or comedy, he brought life into every character with a rare mastery that only a few are blessed with. I had the good fortune of working with him in quite a few films, and I grew up watching him in many more. His work shaped my admiration for cinema. " Actor Ravi Teja, who worked with Rao in over 10 films, also expressed his grief. "Grew up watching him, admiring him, and learning from every performance. Kota Babai was like family to me, I cherish the lovely memories of working with him. Rest in peace, Kota Srinivasa Rao garu Om Shanti," he wrote on X. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu condoled his death, calling it an "irreparable loss" to the Telugu film industry. "The demise of the renowned actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, who won the affection of cinema audiences with his versatile roles, is deeply saddening. His artistic contributions to the fields of cinema and theatre over nearly four decades, and the roles he portrayed, will remain unforgettable," he wrote on social media. "The numerous memorable roles he played as a villain and character artist will forever stay etched in the hearts of Telugu audiences." Rao was born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu village, a suburb of Vijayawada city in Andhra Pradesh. Making his debut with Pranam Khareedu in 1978, he acted in over 750 films in various languages. He also received the Padma Shri in 2015, India's fourth-highest civilian honour, for his contribution to Indian cinema.
