7 blockbusters rejected by Mahesh Babu

Arshi Khanam

Missed hits

Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu has delivered many super hit films. However, he also rejected some of the highly popular films that could’ve changed his trajectory.

Nanban (JioHotstar)

Mahesh Babu was initially offered the lead role in the Tamil remake of 3 Idiots. However, later the role went to Thalapathy Vijay. 

Ghajini (Sun NXT)

AR Murugadoss initially approached Mahesh Babu for the lead role. However, he turned down this epic action blockbuster and it went to Suriya, who aced the role

Pushpa: The Rise (Prime Video)

Sukumar reportedly approached Mahesh Babu initially for his action-packed blockbuster. However, he rejected it and Allu Arjun took the career defining role.

Animal (Netflix)

Before Ranbir Kapoor, this violent action film was reportedly offered to Mahesh Babu. However, he missed the opportunity to Ranbir Kapoor, who featured opposite Rashmika Mandanna.   

Leader (ZEE5)

This political drama film was initially offered to Mahesh Babu. But he lost the opportunity to debutant Rana Daggubati.

Ye Maaya Chesave (ZEE5)

Mahesh Babu was the first choice for this blockbuster romantic drama film. But he turned down the offer and later newcomers Naga Chaitanya and Samantha played the lead.

Idiot (Prime Video)

Ravi Teja was not the initial choice for Idiot and was initially offered to Mahesh But. However, one star’s rejection turned into a huge gain for the other.