In a surprising move, ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli has chosen to part ways with long-time collaborator and cinematographer KK Senthil Kumar for his much-anticipated next film, SSMB29, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra. Senthil Kumar, who has worked with Rajamouli on iconic blockbusters like Baahubali and RRR, confirmed the development in a recent interaction, calling it a “good break.”
“It was Rajamouli’s call. He wanted to try someone else,” Senthil said, adding, “People want to do different films with different people, right? So it is a good break.” He clarified that the decision hasn’t affected their long-standing professional and personal bond. “We’ve been working together since 2003, but there were breaks before too. I didn’t work on Maryada Ramanna or Vikramarkudu because of other commitments. Gaps have happened before, but the relationship continues.”
SSMB29, currently shrouded in secrecy, is expected to be an action-adventure drama in the spirit of Indiana Jones. Rajamouli’s father and veteran screenwriter KV Vijayendra Prasad has previously revealed that the film will be a globetrotting adventure, with Mahesh Babu playing a rugged, action-driven hero in exotic landscapes.
Earlier this year, reports surfaced that Rajamouli had cancelled a major Kenya shoot schedule due to political unrest in South Africa. The director is now said to be exploring alternative international locations.
Rajamouli also offered a charming update during a special screening of RRR in Japan. Introducing Mahesh Babu to an international audience, he said, “His name is Mahesh Babu, he is a Telugu actor (people hoot)… He is very handsome. Hopefully, we finish the film a little bit fast and during the release, I will bring him here and introduce him to you. I’m sure you will love him as well.”
With Senthil Kumar stepping aside and a new cinematographer yet to be revealed, all eyes remain on Rajamouli’s vision for SSMB29, which is shaping up to be one of India’s most ambitious cinematic offerings.
