Mahesh Babu Fans Killed Khaleja Says Producer
Superstar Mahesh Babu’s khaleja, originally released in 2010 and directed by trivikram srinivas, is set to make a much-celebrated return to theatres with a grand worldwide re-release on May 30, 2025. Over time, the film has evolved from being a misunderstood venture at the box office to a cult classic with a fiercely loyal fanbase. Known for its unique blend of satire, social commentary, and Trivikram’s signature wit, khaleja has aged remarkably well, and its dialogues and soundtrack—especially Mani Sharma’s compositions—continue to resonate with audiences. The massive pre-sales for the re-release underline the enduring love for the film and Mahesh Babu’s timeless charisma.
At a recent press event, producer C. kalyan offered a candid reflection on the film’s initial reception. He remarked that one of the ironies of Khaleja’s original box office struggle was that it was Mahesh Babu’s own fans who were partly responsible for its underperformance. According to Kalyan, expectations were sky-high following Mahesh’s previous action-heavy roles, and many fans felt blindsided by the film’s unconventional narrative and philosophical undertone. “They were disappointed not because the film was bad, but because it was different,” he noted. He also revealed that some of the same fans who had criticized the film 15 years ago are now among the most enthusiastic about its return to theatres, highlighting how audience tastes evolve over time.
The re-release of khaleja is not just a celebration of nostalgia but also a second chance for a film that was arguably ahead of its time. With a stellar supporting cast including anushka shetty, Prakash Raj, Brahmanandam, Ali, and Sunil, the film is packed with memorable performances and comedic brilliance. For mahesh babu fans, this re-release is a rare opportunity to revisit his iconic portrayal of Raju—a reluctant saviour wrapped in humor and heart. As theatrical re-releases become a growing trend in Tollywood, khaleja stands out as a film that has finally found its moment, promising to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of moviegoers.
At a recent press event, producer C. kalyan offered a candid reflection on the film’s initial reception. He remarked that one of the ironies of Khaleja’s original box office struggle was that it was Mahesh Babu’s own fans who were partly responsible for its underperformance. According to Kalyan, expectations were sky-high following Mahesh’s previous action-heavy roles, and many fans felt blindsided by the film’s unconventional narrative and philosophical undertone. “They were disappointed not because the film was bad, but because it was different,” he noted. He also revealed that some of the same fans who had criticized the film 15 years ago are now among the most enthusiastic about its return to theatres, highlighting how audience tastes evolve over time.
The re-release of khaleja is not just a celebration of nostalgia but also a second chance for a film that was arguably ahead of its time. With a stellar supporting cast including anushka shetty, Prakash Raj, Brahmanandam, Ali, and Sunil, the film is packed with memorable performances and comedic brilliance. For mahesh babu fans, this re-release is a rare opportunity to revisit his iconic portrayal of Raju—a reluctant saviour wrapped in humor and heart. As theatrical re-releases become a growing trend in Tollywood, khaleja stands out as a film that has finally found its moment, promising to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of moviegoers.