When Mahesh Babu Said “Bollywood Can’t Afford Me”: A Throwback & SSMB29 Update

Introduction

Mahesh Babu—Telugu cinema’s beloved superstar—sparked headlines in 2022 when he boldly stated “Bollywood can’t afford me.” Beyond the controversy, the excitement around his upcoming collaboration with SS Rajamouli, tentatively titled SSMB29, continues to gather steam.

Historical Context: The Statement and Its Clarification

At a promotional event for Sarkaru Vaari Paata in 2022, Mahesh Babu remarked that Bollywood “can’t afford me,” which fueled discussions across the Indian film industry. He later clarified that the comment was exaggerated and that he respects all film industries, highlighting his contentment with his success in Telugu cinema. 

SSMB29: Latest Shooting Updates & First Look

• Current Shooting Location: The film’s crew is deep in production, with a new schedule kicking off in South Africa from September 2025. This continues the globe-trotting spirit of the project, which involves jungle action sequences. 

• First Look Poster & Teaser: On his 50th birthday (August 2025), Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli unveiled a teaser poster featuring a rugged close-up of Mahesh’s chest with a rudraksh mala that carries a trishul and Nandi pendant—symbolic and enigmatic, perfectly suited for a jungle-adventure thriller. The tag "#GlobeTrotter" hints at the scope of the film, and the full reveal is scheduled for November 2025. 

• Movie Title & Reveal Date: The official title remains a mystery, though “Globetrotter” was used as a thematic tag. Hollywood filmmaker James Cameron is expected to unveil the film’s official title in November—adding global flair to the launch.

• Cast & Crew: Besides Mahesh Babu, the film features Priyanka Chopra in a lead role, with Prithviraj Sukumaran confirmed and R. Madhavan rumored to be joining. Written by V. Vijayendra Prasad, directed by Rajamouli, with music by M. M. Keeravani, the film is produced under Sri Durga Arts and is amassing significant anticipation.

Key Highlights

Advantages / Strengths:

• Pan-Indian and Global Appeal: Filming across Africa and India, along with casting pan-India and international talent, widens its reach.

• Creative Team Power: Visionary director Rajamouli, powerful cast, and technical crew elevate expectations.

• Strategic Reveal Plan: Building suspense with a cinematic first look followed by a November reveal keeps audience excitement high.

Challenges / Considerations:

• High Expectations & Pressure: Massive budgets, exotic locales, and global narrative set the bar incredibly high.

• Title Ambiguity: Without an official title, marketing identity is delayed.

• Respectful Distinction Amid Controversy: The earlier “Bollywood can’t afford me” remark might influence perceptions outside the Telugu heartland.

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Mahesh Babu’s offhand but bold comment in 2022 sparked media debate, but the real drama lies in SSMB29—a high-stakes collaboration with SS Rajamouli poised to redefine Indian adventure cinema. From its symbolic first look to international shooting locales and a powerhouse cast, the film is shaping up to be a landmark release.

If the filmmakers can deliver on cinematic scale, emotional depth, and narrative originality, SSMB29 could shatter box-office records and establish itself as a genuine pan-Indian—and potentially global—blockbuster.

Curious to dive deeper—like unpacking James Cameron’s role in the reveal, speculating on plot elements, or tracking post-release buzz? I’d be happy to explore further!