The Telugu film industry is abuzz with anticipation for two major projects featuring leading stars Ram Charan and Mahesh Babu. Ram Charan’s “Game Changer,” directed by the acclaimed Shankar, is finally set to hit theaters on January 10, 2025, as a Sankranthi treat. This long-awaited project, which began production in late 2021, has faced numerous delays, leaving fans eager for updates. Reports suggest that Shankar’s meticulous approach, allegedly involving 20-30 takes per scene, has led to some frustration for Charan and his fans. However, the announcement of the release date has reignited excitement among the audience.
Meanwhile, Mahesh Babu’s fans are preparing for an even longer wait as his collaboration with S.S. Rajamouli, tentatively titled SSMB29, is expected to take another 2-3 years to complete. This ambitious project has generated significant buzz, with rumors circulating about the involvement of two or three senior stars. However, neither Rajamouli nor the producers have provided concrete confirmations, adding to the intrigue surrounding the film.
Rajamouli’s son, Karthikeya, who is part of the film’s direction team, has been actively scouting locations and sharing teaser photos on social media, sparking humorous reactions from fans. Rajamouli himself has joined in, posting a ‘trotting to discover’ update that further fueled speculation and excitement.
The contrasting situations of these two projects highlight the different challenges and expectations faced by Telugu cinema’s biggest stars and directors. While Ram Charan fans are relieved to finally have a release date for “Game Changer,” there’s an underlying concern about the film’s quality given the prolonged production period. Shankar’s reputation as a visionary director is both a source of hope and anxiety for fans who have been waiting patiently for updates.
On the other hand, Mahesh Babu’s fans, while facing a longer wait, have the assurance of Rajamouli’s track record of delivering blockbusters. The director’s previous works, including “Baahubali” and “RRR,” have set a high bar for epic storytelling and visual spectacle. This reputation provides a sense of comfort to fans, who believe that the extended production time will result in a film of unprecedented scale and quality.
The anticipation for both films underscores the passionate fan culture in Telugu cinema, where audiences are willing to endure long waits for their favorite stars’ projects. It also reflects the changing landscape of Indian cinema, where directors are increasingly taking on ambitious, time-intensive projects that push the boundaries of storytelling and production values.
As “Game Changer” approaches its release date and SSMB29 continues its pre-production phase, both projects remain at the forefront of discussions among film enthusiasts. The coming months and years will likely see a steady stream of updates, teasers, and speculation, keeping fans engaged and excited for these mega releases.