In a bold declaration that left the film industry abuzz, Mahesh Babu, one of the most sought-after actors in Telugu cinema, made a controversial comment stating, “Bollywood can’t afford me.” This remark came out while responding to questions regarding his foray into Hindi movies. Mahesh’s debut has been a topic of speculation since he attained humongous fame within South cinema.
In 2022, during the promotion of his film Sarkaru Vaari Paata, he was asked whether he would ever plan on making his Hindi film debut. While interacting with the media, Mahesh Babu said, “I may sound arrogant. I did get a lot of offers in Hindi. But I think they can’t afford me. I don’t want to waste my time.” He claimed there was no need for him to enter Bollywood because the fame he has achieved in Telugu films is unmatched.
Subsequently, Mahesh received criticism from Bollywood fans who considered his statements as undermining the Hindi film industry. To this controversy, the actor quickly backpedalled on his original comments and said his remarks had been “blown out of proportion.”
In a press note, he reaffirmed his love for cinema regardless of the language and felt proud that Telugu cinema had emerged victorious both nationally and internationally. His team released a statement clarifying that Mahesh is dedicated to Telugu cinema and is happy for its progress.
In a follow-up discussion with the Telugu press, the actor elaborated that he wishes to continue working in Telugu films and see the growth of the industry all over the country. “I have always wanted to do Telugu films. And I have always wished for Telugu movies to do well across the country. I strongly feel, why should we go to another industry by leaving ours behind? I am very happy that our films are reaching there (in North India). Our movies are doing well at the pan-India level and my dream is coming true,” Mahesh said.
However, a few people in the industry were quick to back Mahesh Babu’s statements.
Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut echoed the same saying that he was right in claiming that Bollywood could not afford him. “I know for a fact that many filmmakers have approached him,” she told PTI. Ranaut made the comments during the trailer launch of her film Dhaakad.
Even Mukesh Bhatt, the veteran producer, did not show any discontent and agreed reportedly saying, “If Bollywood can’t afford his price, then very good. I wish him all the best.”
Boney Kapoor also remained comparatively neutral saying he could not discuss a lot because he has worked both in Bollywood and South films. In a conversation with The Indian Express, he stated that Mahesh was perfectly within his rights to say what he was feeling but did not intervene in the arguments.
Comments
0 comment