Priyanka Chopra Makes a Bold Comeback with SSMB 29
Global icon Priyanka Chopra is making headlines again, and this time it’s for her spectacular return to Indian cinema alongside powerhouse names in the film industry. She has boarded the highly anticipated project SSMB 29—directed by famed filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli and starring superstar Mahesh Babu in the lead. The buzz surrounding this film is not just because of its star power but also due to its scale, ambition, and global outlook.
A Star-Studded Return
After several years focused primarily on her international and Hollywood engagements, Priyanka Chopra’s involvement in SSMB 29 marks a meaningful re-entry into mainstream Indian cinema. Sources confirm her casting alongside Mahesh Babu and another big name, Prithviraj Sukumaran, making this a triple-threat package.
The film is being widely talked about not merely as another addition to the stars’ filmographies, but as a potential turning point: a large-scale, globe-trotting action adventure whose visual and narrative ambition might set new benchmarks. As one report phrased it, the film “is shaping up to be one of the biggest Indian films ever made.”
Priyanka’s New Look: Mandakini in Action Mode
Recently, Rajamouli unveiled Priyanka’s first look from the film—in which she plays a character named Mandakini. The reveal shows her in a striking action-oriented avatar: in a saree, firing bullets, and exuding both grace and fierce physicality.
The director took to social media to share the image with a heartfelt caption: “The woman who redefined Indian cinema on the global stage. Welcome back, Desi Girl! … can’t wait for the world to witness your myriad shades of MANDAKINI.” This not only highlights the makers’ faith in Priyanka’s performance but also signals that her role is prima facie substantial, not just a cameo or token appearance.
On the Ground: Hyderabad & Beyond
Behind the scenes, Priyanka has been actively engaged in the shoot. She landed in Hyderabad with her team earlier this month, fueling rumours and excitement. Local reports noted her arrival and how social-media interactions between her, Mahesh Babu and Rajamouli have added playful intrigue to what otherwise remains a tightly-guarded production.
Moreover, production has gone global: Priyanka was earlier seen in Nairobi for the film’s international schedule, sharing safari-style glimpses from Kenya. This supports reports that the film features exotic, large-scale outdoor visuals, a hallmark of Rajamouli’s recent projects.
What This Project Means for Priyanka
- Re-Entering Indian Cinema with Impact: Priyanka’s decision to take on a central role in SSMB 29 suggests a strategic shift: moving from global projects back to high-profile Indian film, but doing so on her own terms.
- Versatility & Physicality: The first look emphasises action and styling rather than just glamour — aligning with Priyanka’s growing penchant for serious, performance-driven roles.
- Leveraging Star & Director Synergy: Paired with Mahesh Babu (a major star in Telugu cinema) and guided by Rajamouli (whose films have global reach), the setup boosts both her visibility and the film’s market appeal.
- Expanding Pan-Indian & Global Reach: The film appears to be aimed not just at regional Telugu audiences but at a pan-Indian and perhaps global release. Priyanka’s international profile dovetails neatly into that strategy.
The Build-Up: What to Watch For
- The title reveal event: Reports say the makers will host a giant fan event on November 15 in Hyderabad, potentially unveiling the official title, teaser, and perhaps character posters.
- First full teaser/trailer release—the first look was just a poster; a motion teaser or extended preview could reveal more about Priyanka’s character arc and the film’s setting.
- Market positioning: With Priyanka’s role clearly emphasized, analysts will track how the film is packaged in Hindi, Telugu, and pan-Indian versions, and how her appeal will be leveraged.
- Priyanka’s interviews/promos: As the film prepares for release, her interactions with media will likely emphasise her motivations, challenges in the role, and how she prepared for the action sequences.