Filmmaker SS Rajamouli has taken the internet by storm after unveiling actor Prithviraj Sukumaran’s first-look poster as Kumbha, the primary antagonist in his upcoming film SSMB29, starring Mahesh Babu in the lead role. The intense poster, featuring Prithviraj in a striking and rugged avatar, has set social media abuzz, with fans lauding his powerful screen presence and Rajamouli’s grand vision.
Prithviraj transforms into Kumbha
In the poster, Prithviraj appears as Kumbha, a physically disabled yet commanding villain, embodying a mix of grit, mystery, and power. The intriguing visual hints at a layered antagonist — one whose physical limitation doesn’t diminish his might or influence. Fans have flooded X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with praise, calling the look “terrifyingly majestic” and “a villain to remember.”
The actor, known for his versatile roles in Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) and Lucifer, seems to be stepping into one of his most challenging roles yet. Prithviraj shared the poster on his social media handles, writing, “Honoured to collaborate with the visionary SS Rajamouli. Meet Kumbha — the shadow that rises.”
Rajamouli’s cinematic universe expands
SSMB29, which marks Mahesh Babu’s first collaboration with Rajamouli, is among the most anticipated Indian films in production. Billed as a globetrotting adventure drama, the film promises breathtaking visuals, a gripping narrative, and an emotional core. Industry insiders describe it as Rajamouli’s “most ambitious project yet,” blending mythology, survival, and adventure in a unique narrative style.
Sources close to the production revealed that the film will feature intense action sequences set against exotic landscapes, with Kumbha serving as a formidable force opposing Mahesh Babu’s protagonist. The filmmakers have kept the story details tightly under wraps, increasing curiosity around the film’s themes and characters.
Awaiting Mahesh Babu’s character reveal
Following the buzz around Prithviraj’s poster, fans are now eagerly awaiting Mahesh Babu’s first look, which is expected to drop soon. Speculations suggest that Mahesh will play a “wild and rugged adventurer”, unlike any of his previous roles. The character’s name and background remain undisclosed, but early reports indicate that his role will be central to Rajamouli’s vision of a heroic yet human explorer.
Social media has been flooded with posts under hashtags like #SSMB29, #PrithvirajAsKumbha, and #MaheshBabuLookSoon, with fans celebrating the first major update from the film.
Massive expectations for SSMB29
Backed by KL Narayana under the Durga Arts banner, SSMB29 is being made on a pan-Indian scale, with plans to release it in multiple languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada. The film’s shooting schedule is expected to pick up pace in early 2026, with major portions planned across India and international locations.
Trade analysts predict that SSMB29 will redefine Indian action-adventure cinema, drawing comparisons to global franchises. With Rajamouli at the helm, fans expect another cinematic spectacle on par with Baahubali and RRR.
Conclusion
With Prithviraj Sukumaran’s commanding first look setting the tone, excitement for SSMB29 has reached new heights. As fans await Mahesh Babu’s unveiling, the anticipation surrounding Rajamouli’s next cinematic epic continues to grow — promising yet another landmark in Indian cinema.