Priyanka Chopra, Mahesh Babu's SMB29 shoot in Kenya cancelled due to political turmoil, team likely to film in Tanzania: Report

SSMB29 features Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran in lead roles.

SS Rajamouli’s highly anticipated film SSMB29 starring Priyanka Chopra and Mahesh Babu has been making headlines since its announcement.

Now, fresh developments surrounding its international shoot have sparked renewed interest.

Recent reports state that the film's planned shoot in Kenya has been cancelled because of the region's rising public unrest and anti-government protests.

The original plan was for the actors and crew to start shooting in Kenya by mid-July. But according to Mid-Day, the filmmakers have decided to put the team's safety first and are currently looking into other foreign locations for the shoot.

Ever since its announcement, SSMB29 has been one of the most awaited collaborations in Indian cinema. The combination of Mahesh Babu and visionary director SS Rajamouli has created massive buzz across the country and even internationally. Fans have been curious about every small update, from casting details to shooting schedules, making it one of the most closely followed projects in years.

The involvement of Priyanka Chopra as only added more excitement. This film marks her significant return to Indian cinema after spending several years focusing on Hollywood projects. With Rajamouli at the helm, many are expecting her role to be complex, dynamic, and unlike any of her previous work in Bollywood.

According to early reports, the movie is said to be an action-adventure with a global backdrop. Rajamouli, known for his grand storytelling and visually striking direction in hits like “RRR” and “Baahubali,” is reportedly crafting SSMB29 as a globe-trotting spectacle. The film’s story is rumored to follow a daring explorer played by Mahesh Babu, traveling across continents in search of a hidden secret or lost treasure.

The director’s past films have always combined strong emotional arcs with large-scale adventure sequences. If speculation is to be believed, SSMB29 will continue that tradition, bringing together world-class cinematography, international locations, and deep character-driven storytelling.

The cancellation of the Kenya shoot has been a setback, but it also highlights the meticulous planning Rajamouli is known for. Instead of rushing production, the team has opted to scout safer and equally scenic alternatives in Africa and South America. Several reports suggest that Tanzania, Namibia, and even parts of Argentina are being considered as new potential shooting destinations.

Film analysts believe that Rajamouli’s attention to detail is one of the reasons his projects rarely face major production issues once filming begins. By reassessing the safety and logistics before starting, the director ensures that both his crew and cast work under optimal conditions. This decision reflects his professionalism and the respect he commands in the global film industry.

Meanwhile, Mahesh Babu has been undergoing intense physical training for his role. Sources close to the production have revealed that the actor has adopted a completely new fitness routine, focusing on agility, endurance, and strength. This preparation indicates that his character will perform heavy-duty action scenes, possibly involving stunts in rough terrains and challenging environments.

Fans of Mahesh Babu have taken to social media to express their excitement about the actor’s new avatar. Many have noted that this collaboration with Rajamouli could redefine his career and push him into a more international spotlight. His dedication to the role has also earned praise from industry peers, who see him as one of the few Indian actors capable of carrying such a large-scale global production.

Priyanka Chopra’s casting opposite Mahesh Babu has been another major talking point. The two actors, each with massive fan bases, are expected to bring an intense on-screen chemistry to the film. Industry insiders suggest that her character will not just be a romantic lead but will play a pivotal part in the storyline, possibly as a rival explorer or key ally.

Prithviraj Sukumaran’s role, though kept under wraps, is said to be equally powerful. Known for his commanding screen presence, Prithviraj might be portraying the film’s antagonist or a morally grey character, giving the narrative depth and complexity. His addition adds yet another layer of strength to the already star-studded lineup.

Apart from the casting and location updates, what makes SSMB29 stand out is its production scale. Reports indicate that the film’s budget is among the largest ever for an Indian production, aiming to compete with top-tier international adventure films. Rajamouli’s team has also been working with VFX studios from multiple countries to ensure that the visual effects match global standards.

Music is expected to play a significant role as well. Though details are yet to be confirmed, there are rumors that the film might feature an international composer collaborating with an Indian music director to create a unique cross-cultural soundscape. This blend of global and local talent could give the movie an edge in both domestic and overseas markets.

Another interesting detail circulating online is that Rajamouli might shoot the movie in multiple languages simultaneously. Given the director’s history with pan-Indian blockbusters, this approach would ensure maximum reach and appeal, positioning SSMB29 as a truly international film that transcends language barriers.

Despite the delay in shooting, expectations remain sky-high. Fans are confident that Rajamouli’s storytelling, combined with Mahesh Babu’s screen charisma and Priyanka Chopra’s versatility, will create something exceptional. The project symbolizes the growing ambition of Indian cinema—expanding beyond boundaries, experimenting with global themes, and proving that Indian stories can stand tall on the world stage.

In recent interviews, SS Rajamouli has hinted that SSMB29 will be his most challenging project yet. While he hasn’t revealed much about the plot, he described the film as a ‘wild adventure’ inspired by his love for world travel and exploration. Knowing his track record, audiences can expect a visually stunning, emotionally charged experience that will stay true to his signature style.

As the team continues scouting for alternate shooting locations, fans worldwide are keeping a close eye on every development. Once filming begins, it’s safe to say that SSMB29 will dominate headlines again, becoming one of the most anticipated cinematic events of the coming years.