After months of speculation, legendary filmmaker SS Rajamouli has seemingly confirmed his much-anticipated project with Mahesh Babu, tentatively titled SSMB29. The film has already generated immense buzz, and now, a new update has added to the excitement.
According to News24, Bollywood star John Abraham has joined the cast, replacing Prithviraj Sukumaran. Interestingly, the movie also features Priyanka Chopra, marking a reunion between the Dostana co-stars after 16 years.
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John Abraham Joins Rajamouli’s Magnum Opus
As per reports, Prithviraj Sukumaran was initially considered for a significant role in SSMB29, but things did not materialize. Instead, John Abraham has been brought on board. “Earlier, Prithviraj Sukumaran was considered for the role, but things could not materialise. Now, John will be seen sharing the screen with Priyanka Chopra. He has quite a few scenes with her, and the shoot will happen in Hyderabad itself,” a source told News24.
John’s addition adds an extra layer of intrigue to the project, given his action-packed performances in Bollywood. This collaboration with Rajamouli, known for his visually stunning storytelling, could be a game-changer for the actor.
Mahesh Babu’s Role and Priyanka Chopra’s Hint
Rajamouli recently shared an Instagram post teasing the film’s development. In a humorous video, he claimed to have “caged the lion,” referring to Mahesh Babu, and even confiscated the actor’s passport, implying that he would be deeply immersed in the shoot.
Reacting to the playful jab, Mahesh Babu commented with a famous dialogue from his 2006 blockbuster Pokiri: “Okkasaari commit ayithe naa maata nene vinanu,” meaning, “Once I commit, I won’t even listen to myself.”
Priyanka Chopra, who had been dropping hints about a “new chapter” in her career while in Hyderabad, also seemed to confirm her involvement in SSMB29 by commenting “finally” under Rajamouli’s post. This subtle yet strong indication has thrilled her fans, who are eager to see her back in an Indian film.
Dostana Pair Reunites After 16 Years
John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra last shared the screen in Dostana (2008), a romantic comedy directed by Tarun Mansukhani. The film, produced by Dharma Productions, also featured Abhishek Bachchan and was a major hit upon release.
Their reunion in SSMB29 has sparked curiosity among fans, especially regarding their on-screen dynamic in a Rajamouli spectacle. Unlike Dostana, which was light-hearted and comedic, this upcoming film is expected to be a high-octane action-adventure, marking a drastic shift in their cinematic pairing.
Upcoming Projects of the Cast
John Abraham has a packed schedule with The Diplomat, set for release on March 7. Directed by Shivam Nair and written by Ritesh Shah, the film is inspired by real events, promising an intense narrative around power and patriotism.
Mahesh Babu, on the other hand, recently lent his voice to Mufasa in the Telugu adaptation of Mufasa: The Lion King. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra is collaborating with her husband, Nick Jonas, and his brothers Joe and Kevin Jonas for a forthcoming holiday film.
With SSMB29 shaping up to be a cinematic spectacle, Rajamouli seems to be assembling an exciting cast. As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await more details about this ambitious project, which promises to be another blockbuster from the RRR and Baahubali director.
FAQs
Who has replaced Prithviraj Sukumaran in SS Rajamouli’s SSMB29?
John Abraham has reportedly replaced Prithviraj Sukumaran in SSMB29 and will share screen space with Priyanka Chopra in the highly anticipated film.
Is Priyanka Chopra confirmed for SS Rajamouli’s next film?
While an official announcement is awaited, Priyanka Chopra hinted at her involvement by commenting “finally” on Rajamouli’s Instagram post about SSMB29.
What is SS Rajamouli’s SSMB29 about?
SSMB29 is an action-packed film featuring Mahesh Babu in a lead role. It is written by Vijayendra Prasad and directed by RRR and Baahubali creator SS Rajamouli.
When did John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra last work together?
John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra last collaborated in Dostana (2008), a romantic comedy that became a major hit. SSMB29 marks their reunion after 16 years.
When will SSMB29 begin shooting?
SS Rajamouli has teased that Mahesh Babu is fully committed to SSMB29, and filming is expected to take place in Hyderabad soon.