The hype for SSMB29, the big-ticket team-up between S.S. Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu, just got juicier with word that Tamil star Vikram passed on playing the bad guy in this epic jungle adventure. This action-packed flick, still in the works for a 2027 release, is already a hot topic, and Vikram’s decision has fans buzzing about who’ll step into the villain’s shoes.
Word from Chennai is that Rajamouli, the mastermind behind Baahubali and RRR, had his eye on Vikram for a meaty antagonist role with some serious edge. Picture a complex, larger-than-life baddie in a story that’s got Indiana Jones vibes, set in wild jungles and far-off places. The two had a friendly chat about it, but Vikram, known for killer performances in stuff like Anniyan and Ponniyin Selvan, decided to pass. After his recent flick Veera Dheera Sooran 2 didn’t quite light up the box office in 2025, he’s leaning hard into lead roles to keep his hero status strong. Still, he and Rajamouli parted on good terms, so maybe they’ll team up down the road.
Now that Vikram’s out, the big question is who’s next. Rumor has it Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran might snag the role. With his intense vibe from films like Ayyappanum Koshiyum and Salaar, he could totally nail the part and make sparks fly opposite Mahesh Babu, who’s coming off the 2024 hit Guntur Kaaram. Fans are already hyped for that potential showdown.
SSMB29 is shaping up to be Rajamouli’s wildest ride yet, with a budget north of Rs. 1000 crore, backed by KVN Productions and SSMB Productions. Written by Rajamouli’s dad, Vijayendra Prasad, it’s a high-octane adventure with heart, blending action and emotion across stunning global settings. Mahesh Babu’s been training hard, even hitting up Germany for some intense prep, to play a rugged, badass lead. Plus, Hollywood big shots like action director Kenny Bates (Transformers) are on board, so expect some jaw-dropping stunts.
Rajamouli’s villains, like Bhallaladeva or Bheem, are always unforgettable, so this role’s a big deal. Vikram passing on it just cranks up the curiosity about who’ll take it on. With shooting set to kick off soon, SSMB29 is already feeling like a massive deal for Mahesh and Rajamouli, who’ve both got crazy momentum. The 2027 release can’t come soon enough, and with casting news like this, the excitement’s only getting bigger.
Source: Deccan Chronicle