Superstar Mahesh Babu paid an emotional tribute to his late father and legendary actor Ghattamaneni Sivarama Krishna on the occasion of his 82nd birth anniversary.
Taking to Instagram, Mahesh shared a nostalgic black-and-white photo of his father from his younger days, along with a touching message:
“Always guided by your light. Happy birthday, Nanna! Thinking of you today and every day.”
“Your life was celebrated… your passing is being celebrated even more… such is your greatness.” He also shared how his father’s strength continues to inspire him, stating that he now walks forward with fearlessness, carrying his father’s light within him.
Producer C. Kalyan, who backed the film 15 years ago, expressed his joy at the renewed appreciation. “It was Mahesh Babu’s fans who missed the true potential of Khaleja during its original release. But now, it’s becoming one of the top-grossing re-released films,” he said.
Kalyan also shared a memory from the original shoot: “Mahesh Babu shot a single scene for 48 hours straight, taking only short breaks in his caravan. His dedication was unmatched.” Reflecting on the film’s journey, he concluded, “Maybe it was written that Khaleja would get its due only after 15 years.”
Mahesh Babu is currently immersed in the filming of the much-anticipated SSMB 29, directed by SS Rajamouli. The pan-India project will mark his first on-screen collaboration with Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra, further heightening excitement among fans.