In a surprising turn of events, veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar has reportedly turned down an offer to star in SS Rajamouli’s highly anticipated project SSMB29, starring Mahesh Babu. The acclaimed filmmaker, known for blockbuster hits like RRR and Baahubali, had approached Nana to play Mahesh Babu’s on-screen father in the upcoming adventure thriller.
Despite being offered a staggering ₹20 crore for just a 15-day shoot, Patekar declined the role. According to reports, Rajamouli personally visited the actor’s farmhouse near Pune to narrate the script, but Patekar found the role too small and not challenging enough for his calibre. His decision has stirred conversations across film circles and social media platforms, with many praising his integrity and commitment to meaningful cinema.
SSMB29 is expected to be one of the most expensive Indian films ever made, with a rumored budget of ₹1,000 crore. The film is set to be a grand mythological adventure and marks Priyanka Chopra’s return to Indian cinema after nearly a decade. Also joining the cast is Prithviraj Sukumaran, with music composed by Oscar-winner MM Keeravani.
Though the makers are tight-lipped, speculations suggest a March 2027 release to coincide with the fifth anniversary of RRR. Patekar’s refusal hasn’t dampened the film’s buzz, which continues to remain sky-high.
Nana Patekar’s decision has sparked debates online, with many admiring his unwavering artistic standards. Despite the hefty paycheck, he prioritized content over commercial appeal, setting an example in an industry often driven by fame and financial gain.