In a rare and heartwarming gesture in the Telugu film industry, director Subba Reddy has voluntarily given the title “Varanasi” to the upcoming SS Rajamouli–Mahesh Babu film without accepting any payment.
Speaking during a media interaction alongside Producers Council Secretary Prasanna Kumar and former Directors’ Association President Veera Shankar, Subba Reddy revealed that he had registered the title Varanasi under his banner in 2023 and had even started developing a story around it. However, when he came to know that the same title was being considered for Rajamouli’s ambitious project starring Mahesh Babu, he decided to hand it over without hesitation.
Calling it a matter of pride, Subba Reddy said he felt honored to contribute, even in a small way, to a landmark Telugu film featuring his favorite actor Mahesh Babu, visionary director SS Rajamouli, and veteran producer KL Narayana. He made it clear that he never viewed the title as a business asset and did not consider accepting any money in exchange.
“A title is an emotion for me. It is not something to be sold. I was happy to give it away for a good film,” Subba Reddy said, emphasizing that supporting a prestigious Telugu project meant more to him than financial gain.
Former Directors’ Association President Veera Shankar also appreciated the gesture, revealing that Subba Reddy was initially emotionally attached to the title, which is why they did not approach him immediately. Once they explained that the title was required for Rajamouli’s film and that the decision would send a positive message across the industry, Subba Reddy readily agreed.
Veera Shankar described the move as an example of mutual respect within the film fraternity, adding that film titles should be shared with goodwill rather than treated purely as commercial assets. He said such gestures help strengthen unity and cooperation in the Telugu film industry.
The team also conveyed their best wishes to SS Rajamouli, KL Narayana, MM Keeravani, and Chandrabose, expressing confidence that Varanasi would become another milestone and further elevate Telugu cinema on the global stage.
The post Subba Reddy Gifts ‘Varanasi’ Title to Rajamouli–Mahesh Babu Film Without Taking a Rupee appeared first on TeluguBulletin.com.
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