Telugu Cinema

Baahubali The Epic: Prabhas and Rana’s Playful Promotion Steals the Spotlight

by 123telugu July 17, 2025

S.S. Rajamouli’s legendary Baahubali saga is all set to return to theatres, this time as a single film titled Baahubali The Epic, releasing on October 31, 2025. Yes, both parts of the blockbuster are being re-released as one epic experience. And fans are already buzzing with excitement, wondering how this new cut will feel on the big screen.

The promotional campaign has kicked off in a fun and clever way. The official Baahubali handle recently posted, “What if Kattappa didn’t kill Baahubali?” Naturally, the internet went wild with responses. And the cast jumped right in. Rana Daggubati, who played Bhallaladeva, replied, “I would have killed him instead.” Classic Bhalla energy.

Then came Prabhas with a perfect comeback. He quoted Rana’s post on Instagram and wrote, “I let it happen Bhalla… for this,” attaching the now-iconic Rs.1000 crore gross poster of Baahubali 2. Just like that, the campaign went viral.

Now fans are eagerly waiting for the rest of the cast, especially Anushka Shetty, Sathyaraj, and Ramya Krishnan, to join in. If they do, this playful promo could become a full-on reunion event.

Meanwhile, over on BookMyShow, interest is exploding. The film has already crossed 81,000 interests, showing that the magic of Baahubali is still very much alive, even after nearly a decade. Baahubali The Epic will release worldwide in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi, giving fans across languages a chance to relive the story in a new way.

July 17, 2025

Rana Daggubati Speaks on Baahubali The Epic’s Lengthy Runtime Rumours

by 123telugu July 16, 2025

Baahubali: The Epic, a remastered version combining both parts of SS Rajamouli’s iconic franchise, is set to release on October 31, 2025 in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, and Japanese (coming soon). The announcement has revived massive interest among fans across languages. What is drawing even more attention is the rumored runtime of 5 hours and 27 minutes.

The BookMyShow listing mentioned the lengthy duration, which quickly went viral. Producer Shobu Yarlagadda commented that the runtime is similar to a thrilling IPL match. However, the team has not officially confirmed the final cut yet.

Adding to the curiosity, Rana Daggubati responded to the speculation during the special premiere of his upcoming production Kotthapallilo Okappudu, happened last night in Hyderabad. When asked about the runtime of Baahubali: The Epic, Rana said he does not know either.

“Only Rajamouli knows it. He will not share anything until it is locked,” Rana explained. This has only deepened the mystery and kept fans talking. Everyone is now waiting for SS Rajamouli’s word.

In the meantime, the makers have launched a new Reddit community (r/worldofbaahubali) dedicated to Baahubali: The Epic where fans can share their artwork and follow official updates.

The Baahubali franchise, starring Prabhas, Anushka Shetty, Rana Daggubati, Tamannaah Bhatia, Sathyaraj, and Ramya Krishnan, not only redefined Telugu cinema but also pioneered the pan-India film movement. Ten years later, it continues to set new benchmarks.

July 16, 2025

Veteran Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao passes away at 83

by 123telugu July 13, 2025

The Telugu film industry woke up to heartbreaking news this Sunday morning. Legendary actor Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away at 4 AM at his residence in Hyderabad after battling a prolonged illness. He was 83.

For millions of fans, Kota Srinivasa Rao was not just an actor. He was a powerful presence, a voice of authority, and a performer who could bring any character to life with ease. His passing leaves a deep void, not only in Telugu cinema but in Indian film history as a whole.

Born on 10 July 1942 in Kankipadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kota came from a respectable family. His father, Seetha Rama Anjaneyulu, was a doctor. Although Kota initially aspired to follow in his father’s footsteps, his love for acting took over. After completing his Bachelor of Science degree, he worked at State Bank while pursuing his passion for theatre during his college years.

He entered the film world in 1978 with Pranam Khareedu, and what followed was an extraordinary journey of more than four decades. He acted in over 750 films across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi languages. Whether he played a ruthless villain, a witty comedian, or a layered supporting role, Kota brought authenticity, power, and depth to every part.

He delivered iconic performances in films like Siva, Gaayam, Money, Satruvu, Aha Naa Pellanta, Bommarillu, Athadu, Rakta Charitra, Leader, S/O Satyamurthy, and Attarintiki Daredi. In 2003, he made a memorable debut in Tamil cinema with Saamy, playing a suave and calculated antagonist that audiences loved to fear.

Kota was honored with nine Nandi Awards for his excellence across villain, supporting, and character roles. In 2015, he was conferred with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his immense contribution to Indian cinema.

Beyond the screen, he was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife Rukmini, two daughters, and a son(late). His family, friends, and admirers now carry the weight of a profound loss.

Tributes are pouring in from across the industry. Colleagues, fans, and celebs are remembering him not only for his unforgettable roles but also for his humility, discipline, and sharp intellect.

We at 123telugu join the entire nation in mourning the loss of a legend. Kota Srinivasa Rao may have left this world, but his art and spirit will live on forever in the hearts of millions.

July 13, 2025