Veteran actor Nana Patekar has reportedly turned down a lucrative offer to star in SS Rajamouli's upcoming film, SSMB29, despite the director's enthusiasm for his involvement. According to sources, Rajamouli visited Patekar's Pune farmhouse to narrate the script, but Patekar was not convinced by the role. The offer of ₹20 crore for just 15 days of work was not enough to persuade him to take on the project.
Reports revealed that Nana Patekar felt the role wasn't something he wanted to sink his teeth into, despite Rajamouli's keenness on casting him for a pivotal part in the film. However, Patekar expressed a desire to work with Rajamouli in the future, leaving the door open for potential collaboration on another project. When contacted by media, Nana Patekar denied any involvement in SSMB29.
SSMB29, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, is currently being shot and is slated for a 2027 release. The film also features Prithviraj Sukumaran in a key role. The film is most expensive in Indian cinema and most awaited given Rajamouli's track record of delivering massive hits.
The news of Nana Patekar's rejection has sparked interest among fans, who are eagerly waiting for the film's release. With its star-studded cast and Rajamouli's direction, SSMB29 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the year.