Key Highlights:
Mahesh Babu Summoned by ED in ₹5.9 Crore Real Estate Scam Probe
Superstar Mahesh Babu has found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy, as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a formal summons to him in connection with an alleged money laundering case involving Hyderabad-based real estate firms.
According to official sources, Mahesh is expected to appear before the ED on April 27, 2025, as part of an ongoing investigation into dubious financial dealings linked to Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group.
What Triggered the ED Notice to Mahesh?
The ED’s notice stems from a ₹5.9 crore endorsement deal between Mahesh and Sai Surya Developers. While endorsement deals from celebrities are routine in the real estate and lifestyle sectors, what raised red flags was the mode of payment:
- ₹3.4 crore was reportedly paid via official banking channels (cheque/bank transfer).
- ₹2.5 crore, however, is said to have been paid in cash, which is now under scrutiny.
Officials suspect the cash component could be laundered money generated from fraudulent real estate schemes. The probe is examining if this amount was part of a larger illicit network of financial diversions.
Mahesh Babu’s Stand on the ED Summons
As of now, there is no direct allegation of wrongdoing against Mahesh Babu. The ED aims to question him primarily as a witness to understand the nature of his association with the implicated developers.
Close sources to the actor have reportedly stated:
“Mahesh garu had no idea about the internal finances of the company. The deal was signed legally with proper paperwork.”
However, the unexplained cash transaction has made his testimony a crucial piece in unraveling the money trail.
Mahesh Babu and Sai Surya Developers: What’s the Link?
Mahesh Babu had publicly endorsed several premium projects by Sai Surya Developers between 2021–2023, appearing in ads and branding campaigns across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
The company had rapidly expanded during this period, with numerous high-value land acquisitions and luxury villa promotions. ED officials now believe some of these expansions were fueled by suspicious capital influx, possibly linked to benami transactions.
Public Reactions and Industry Buzz
The news has sent shockwaves through the Telugu film industry. While fans have trended #WeStandWithMahesh on social media, insiders are watching closely to see how this affects his upcoming projects:
- ‘Guntur Kaaram’ is set for a Sankranthi 2026 release.
- A high-budget pan-India actioner with director SS Rajamouli is also in the pipeline.
Despite the ED notice, sources confirm that no shooting schedules have been delayed and Mahesh Babu is continuing his work as planned.
ED’s Investigation Into Tollywood’s Financial Links
This isn’t the first time Tollywood stars have been linked to ED probes. Over the past few years, actors, directors, and producers have faced questioning related to:
- Drug rackets
- Benami property deals
- Endorsement fee irregularities
The ED has increased its vigilance, especially with the real estate sector often being used as a front for laundering unaccounted money.
What’s Next for the Star and the Case?
All eyes are now on April 27, when Mahesh will appear before ED officials. Legal experts believe that unless substantial evidence links him to the fraudulent financial activities, the probe may treat him as a peripheral figure.
Still, the developments mark a rare legal hurdle in the otherwise squeaky-clean image of the Tollywood icon.
Final Word on the Buzz
For Mahesh Babu, known for his philanthropic work and box office consistency, the ED notice is an unexpected chapter. While there’s currently no legal charge against him, the coming weeks will determine if the endorsement deal was just a professional transaction or a part of a larger scam narrative.
Fans, meanwhile, continue to show unwavering support as the story unfolds.
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