Exotic Film Shoot Abruptly Canceled
A high-profile worldwide collaboration among Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu and global icon Priyanka Chopra, tentatively titled SSMB29, has come to a sudden halt. The ambitious Africa-based schedule of the film set against the stunning backdrop of Kenya’s savannahs was canceled due to political clashes that have recently rocked the East African nation.
This cancellation not only disrupts a major Indian film shoot however also raises concerns for foreign productions in Kenya amid escalating unrest.
What Is SSMB29? A Pan-Indian Cinematic Powerplay
SSMB29 marks Mahesh Babu’s 29th film and was shaping up to be a international cinematic venture. Directed by a top-tier filmmaker (yet to be publicly confirmed) the scheme aimed to blend Telugu cinematic richness through international production value shooting key sequences in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tsavo National Parks.
Key Highlights:
- Lead Cast: Mahesh Babu & Priyanka Chopra
- Genre: Action-adventure through worldwide appeal
- Location: Kenya’s wildlife-rich regions
- Budget: Estimated ₹200+ crore, placing it between big-budget Indian films of 2025
- Target Markets: India, Africa, North America and Europe
Why Was the Kenya Schedule of SSMB29 Canceled?
The production was abruptly called off after escalating Party-Political Tensions and Public Unrest in Kenya in early July 2025. Sources close to the unit revealed that local protests turned violent near Nairobi and Mombasa only days before the crew was scheduled to arrive on-site.
Main Reasons Behind the Cancellation:
- Widespread anti-government protests
- Ethnic clashes in Central and Western Kenya
- Security advisories from embassies
- Insurance concerns from production partners
“The safety of our cast and crew is our top priority. Given the unpredictable situation, we had no option but to suspend all filming activities in Kenya,” a spokesperson confirmed.
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Why Kenya? The Allure of African Landscapes for Indian Filmmakers
Over the years, Kenya has attracted a stream of universal productions from documentaries to high-stakes blockbusters thanks to its picturesque landscapes exotic wildlife and cost-effective filming infrastructure.
Past Films Shot in Kenya:
- The Constant Gardener (2005)
- Out of Africa (1985)
- Many Indian song sequences and travel documentaries
SSMB29’s Kenya schedule was to feature:
- Chase scenes through the Great Rift Valley
- Introspective scenes through wildlife backdrops
- A dramatic action set piece near Lake Naivasha
What’s Next for Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra?
Despite the setback individually stars remain committed to the scheme.
- Mahesh Babu is reportedly undergoing combat training for his role which is rumored to involve an ex-army operative turned wildlife guard.
- Priyanka Chopra, fresh from her Amazon Prime series and Hollywood schemes is said to play a UN field researcher, marking one of her most intense roles in recent years.
FAQs
Why was SSMB29 canceled in Kenya?
Due to political clashes and protests in Kenya the manufacture team halted all filming doings citing safety concerns.
Will SSMB29 be rescheduled?
Yes. Producers are evaluating alternative locations and the schedule is expected to continue in late 2025.
Is it safe to shoot films in Kenya now?
According to recent security bulletins, Kenya remains volatile for foreign film crews, especially in protest-affected regions.
Are other Indian films shot in Kenya?
Yes. Several Indian filmmakers have chosen Kenya for exotic visuals however many now seek safer alternatives amid the unrest.
Final Take: Is This a Main Blow to Indian Global Cinema?
But the SSMB29 Kenya deletion is undoubtedly a disruption it also highlights the complex geopolitical challenges filmmakers face in a globalized era. However through its massive star power manufacture muscle and narrative goal SSMB29 is distant from derailed it is simply taking a new route.