Mahesh Babu Summoned by ED in Hyderabad Real Estate Scam, ₹2.5 Crore Cash Payment Under Probe

Hyderabad : Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged real estate scam involving two prominent Hyderabad-based developer groups—Sai Surya Developers and Surana Group. The actor is scheduled to appear before the agency on April 28 as part of an ongoing probe into alleged money laundering and fraudulent practices.

According to ED sources, Mahesh Babu had endorsed several high-profile real estate projects linked to the two firms currently under investigation. The ED has flagged a payment of ₹2.5 crore in cash, which the actor allegedly received for his endorsement services. An additional ₹3.4 crore was paid via cheque, taking the total endorsement fee to ₹5.9 crore.

While officials confirmed that Mahesh Babu is not currently being treated as an accused in the case, the agency believes his star power may have contributed to public trust in the projects, thereby influencing potential buyers to invest. The developers are alleged to have defrauded buyers and laundered significant amounts of money through complex financial channels.

The actor's legal team has not yet released an official statement in response to the summons.

Industry Reactions and Work Front

This development has sent ripples across Tollywood, with fans and industry insiders awaiting clarity on the actor’s role in the case. Meanwhile, Mahesh Babu continues work on his next big-budget film, SSMB29, helmed by acclaimed director SS Rajamouli. The film also marks the much-anticipated return of Priyanka Chopra to Indian cinema after six years.

Reportedly, Prithviraj Sukumaran also plays a significant role in the film, parts of which were shot in Odisha last month. Touted as a pan-India release, SSMB29 is expected to hit theatres in 2026.

As the investigation deepens, all eyes will be on Mahesh Babu’s response and the ED’s next steps in the high-stakes case.