Makers of Mahesh Babu’s next film dismiss talk of Jr NTR’s cousin Taraka Ratna playing villain

Actor Taraka Ratna, who is Jr NTR’s cousin, has made a mark for himself in a few movies. After playing the lead roles in a few films, he essayed the villain in the film Amaravathi (2009), and his performance earned him his first Nandi state award. 

A few days ago, reports emerged that Taraka Ratna had been signed to play the baddie in Mahesh Babu’s next film with Trivikram Srinivas, which has tentatively been titled SSMB28. In fact, a Twitter handle understood by some to be Taraka Ratna's put out a cryptic tweet on Saturday. 

The tweet include the hashtag SSMB28, and several fans in the replies asked if he was part of the project. There was no response. 

After the tweet went viral, the makers of the movie clarified via a statement that there’s no truth to the rumour. 

Meanwhile, Mahesh will soon commence work on this project, which also stars Pooja Hegde and marks his third collaboration with Trivikram Srinivas. The duo had previously worked together in Athadu (2005) and Khaleja (2010). 

The actor was recently seen in the Telugu film Sarkaru Vaari Paata, in which he played a loan agent. Keerthy Suresh was paired with him for the first time. The movie was directed by Parasuram. 

Mahesh also has a project with SS Rajamouli in the pipeline. It is likely to go on the floors next year.