Telugu cinema has grown steadily in the past decade in its popularity beyond regional boundaries. Following the success of films such as Baahubali, Telugu directors and actors are now industry leaders in the pan-Indian market. Bollywood, eager to tap into South Indian markets, particularly the Telugu states, has been actively seeking associations with Telugu stars in recent times. There have been some attempts with varying degrees of success.
Recently, the Hindi film War 2 was released under the YRF Spy Universe and met a lukewarm reception at the box office. Telugu fans, in general, were particularly disappointed with the film, pointing out that they were not impressed with Jr. NTR’s debut in Hindi cinema. This follows similar disappointments with previous films such as Ram Charan’s Zanjeer and Prabhas’ Adipurush, which did not live up to expectations despite the stars ‘ enormous regional popularity.
In this regard, statements made by Mahesh Babu in 2022 have gone viral on social media once again. At the trailer release of Adivi Sesh’s film Major, Mahesh stated that he was offered many films by Bollywood but felt no urge to cross over. “I sound arrogant ; I did receive a lot of offers in Hindi. But I feel they can’t afford me. I don’t want to waste my time,” he said at the event.
Meanwhile, Mahesh pointed out the increasing influence of Telugu cinema in India. He explained that his priority has always been to see Telugu films reach all over the country and not position himself as a pan-India actor. “Today the emotion is so intense, films have grown so large that the lines have vanished, and it has become Indian cinema,” he added further.
The re-emergence of Mahesh Babu’s comments has generated debate on social media, especially following War 2 and Adipurush. Most Telugu fans believe his observation is correct, given the failures of these recent Hindi productions to meet regional expectations. For them, it reaffirms the notion that some stars are best appreciated in terms of their home industry.
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