Mahesh Babu and AR Murugadoss' film seems to be attracting buyers even before the commencement of its shooting. Hence, the makers are reportedly demanding a huge amount for the overseas rights of the bilingual flick, which will be simultaneously shot in Telugu and Tamil.
There are reports doing the rounds that the makers are demanding Rs. 15 crore for the overseas rights of the film, which is presently being referred to as "Mahesh 23." Trade tracker Indian Box Office confirmed the news by tweeting, "#Mahesh23 with ARM overseas asking rate over 15 crs (Tel+Tam). Film is targeting over 30 crores overseas. Film will gross 40 crs at most. [sic]"
Speculations are rife that the makers have started getting offers from the interested parties to buy the overseas rights. It has to be seen whether they will sell it now or wait for the appropriate time to seal the deal.
The overseas rights of Mahesh Babu's previous movie "Brahmotsavam" were sold for a record Rs. 13.20 crore. Unfortunately, the Telugu movie bombed at the box office. Nonetheless, the Tollywood superstar's market seems to have not taken a toll as the rights of his latest movie are in demand.
"Mahesh 23" is written and directed by AR Murugadoss. Supergood Movies is bankrolling the flick, which is reportedly being made with a budget of Rs. 100 crore. It has Harris Jayaraj's music and Santhosh Sivan's cinematography.
Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra is reportedly making her South Indian debut with this film. Director-turned-actor SJ Suryah has been roped in to play the role of an antagonist in "Mahesh 23."
Meanwhile, Harris Jayaraj is ready with two songs from the film. "@Jharrisjayaraj has also already recorded 2 tracks for the #MaheshBabu @ARMurugadoss biggie.. #Mahesh23, [sic] "Journalist Kaushik LM tweeted.
The shooting of the movie is likely to start on July 15. Reports say that the makers have planned to kick off the shoot with a duet song on the lead stars.
