SSMB29 is one of the most highly anticipated film projects in Indian cinema, bringing together an all-star team including director SS Rajamouli, actor Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and composer M M Keeravani.
However, fans eager for updates may have to wait longer, as the next phase of production—originally scheduled to begin this month in Kenya—has reportedly been put on hold.
According to a report in The New York Times, Kenya has been gripped by unrest in recent weeks due to widespread dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of financial matters and corruption.
Violent clashes between protesters and police have resulted in the deaths of at least 38 people, including two children, just last week. An earlier wave of protests also saw 16 fatalities.
Though the Kenyan shooting schedule had been planned two months in advance, the deteriorating security situation has prompted Rajamouli and his team to pause production.
The shoot is unlikely to commence this week. Alternate locations such as Tanzania and South Africa are now being considered, and a new schedule is expected to be finalized soon.
Meanwhile, SSMB29 marks a notable change in Rajamouli’s core crew.
The director has parted ways with his long-time cinematographer K. K. Senthil Kumar, who previously collaborated with him on blockbusters like RRR, Eega, the Baahubali series, and Magadheera.
Cinematographer P. S. Vinod has been brought on board as his replacement—a decision reportedly made personally by Rajamouli.
As the team recalibrates its production plans, fans will have to wait a little longer for this global adventure to take shape.
