South superstar Mahesh Babu has often trended for his firm stance on staying within the Telugu film industry, most notably for his 2022 remark that “Bollywood can’t afford me.” While that statement sparked a massive national debate at the time, actor Rahul Dev has now offered a humorous and blunt perspective on why the superstar might actually be avoiding Hindi cinema. During a recent interview with Hindi Rush, Rahul, who worked with Mahesh in the 2002 film Takkari Donga, was asked about the actor’s famous claim. Reacting with a playful wink and a smile, Rahul jokingly remarked that the real reason is simply that Mahesh does not know the language. He stated that “unko zuban nahi aati” (he doesn’t know the language), suggesting that a lack of fluency in Hindi, rather than financial or status-related reasons, is what truly keeps him away from Bollywood projects.
Beyond the lighthearted jab, Rahul Dev also shared a more serious analysis of Mahesh Babu’s career and the difference between the industries. He praised the actor’s long-standing collaboration with director Trivikram Srinivas, noting that they successfully blend commercial entertainment with sensible storytelling. Rahul pointed out that this specific middle-ground genre is currently missing in Hindi cinema, which he feels often swings between the gritty, extreme styles of filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap and big-budget remakes of Hollywood movies. He suggested that the comfort Mahesh finds in the well-crafted scripts of the South, combined with the immense love he receives from his home audience, makes the transition to another industry unnecessary. According to Rahul, it is this combination of professional satisfaction and linguistic comfort that defines Mahesh’s career choices.
Despite Rahul’s comments, Mahesh Babu is currently preparing for what is expected to be his biggest global project yet, Varanasi, directed by the legendary S.S. Rajamouli. The film is set to be a massive globe-trotting adventure that also features global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran. During a recent promotional event, Priyanka even referred to him as the “legendary Mahesh Babu,” further cementing his status as a star who transcends regional boundaries. While fans often argue about his ability to speak Hindi, with some sharing old clips to prove his fluency, the actor himself has clarified in the past that his heart lies in Telugu cinema. As he gears up for his highly anticipated 2027 release, this recent exchange serves as a reminder of the ongoing fascination and friendly rivalry between the different hubs of Indian cinema.
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