By Vijayendra Prasad Explains SS Rajamouli’s Choice of Adventure Thriller for Mahesh Babu’s ‘SSMB29’
Superstar Mahesh Babu and global icon Priyanka Chopra are set to share the screen for the first time in the much-anticipated film SS Rajamouli’s SSMB29, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker SS Rajamouli. The project has officially entered the production stage, with key scenes already filmed at the Aluminium Factory in Hyderabad. Known for his grand cinematic vision, Rajamouli is expected to deliver yet another magnum opus, and SSMB29 is already creating waves in the industry.
The film promises to be a large-scale adventure thriller, marking a completely new genre for Mahesh Babu. Rajamouli’s father and celebrated writer Vijayendra Prasad recently shared insights into the movie’s concept. Speaking to OTT Play, he revealed that SSMB29 is designed to appeal to global audiences. He noted that adventure thrillers are relatively rare in Indian cinema, making this film a unique and much-needed addition to the industry. “The film is aimed at the global market, and what better genre than an adventure thriller?” Prasad remarked, emphasizing that the story is crafted with an international audience in mind.
To enhance its adventurous appeal, SSMB29 will feature breathtaking sequences shot in the forests of Kenya, adding an authentic touch to its globe-trotting narrative. While production has begun with initial scenes filmed in Hyderabad, full-fledged shooting is expected to start in April 2025. The filmmakers plan to wrap up shooting by late 2026, ensuring ample time for post-production and visual effects work. Given Rajamouli’s reputation for maintaining secrecy around his projects, strict NDAs have been signed by the cast and crew to prevent leaks and preserve the film’s excitement.
Priyanka Chopra, who plays the female lead, has temporarily stepped away from filming to attend her brother Siddharth Chopra’s wedding. Despite this brief break, her role is expected to be pivotal, adding depth and intrigue to the storyline. Having made her mark in Hollywood with projects like Quantico and The Matrix Resurrections, Priyanka’s presence in SSMB29 further elevates the film’s international appeal.
One of the most talked-about aspects of SSMB29 is its massive budget, estimated to be between ₹900 and ₹1,000 crores. This puts it among the most expensive Indian films ever made. The movie is said to draw inspiration from globally successful adventure franchises like Indiana Jones, promising a thrilling mix of action, mystery, and exploration. Given Rajamouli’s track record with blockbusters like Baahubali and RRR, expectations are sky-high for this project.
Adding to the excitement, there have been speculations that Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran might also be part of the film. Although there is no official confirmation yet, his potential involvement has already sparked curiosity among fans. If true, it would further enhance the film’s pan-Indian appeal, bringing together top talents from different film industries.
Mahesh Babu, known for his charismatic screen presence and versatility, is expected to showcase a never-seen-before avatar in this film. With an adventure-thriller setup, his character is likely to undergo intense physical transformations and high-energy action sequences. This marks a significant shift from his usual roles, adding to the anticipation among his fans.
Rajamouli, a master of storytelling and visual spectacle, is known for pushing the boundaries of Indian cinema. His films have consistently set new benchmarks in filmmaking, and SSMB29 is expected to be no different. With its ambitious scale, star-studded cast, and a genre that is relatively unexplored in Indian cinema, the film has the potential to be a game-changer.
As the film moves deeper into production, excitement continues to build among moviegoers. With Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra leading the cast, and Rajamouli’s vision steering the project, SSMB29 is shaping up to be a cinematic extravaganza that will captivate audiences worldwide.
