Mahesh Babu summoned by ED in real estate probe

In a significant development, superstar Mahesh Babu has come under the radar of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering investigation involving real estate firms Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group.

According to media reports, the ED has issued formal notices to the actor, summoning him for questioning regarding his financial transactions and association with these companies.

Brand ambassador for the group

Mahesh Babu, who has served as a brand ambassador for several major firms, is reported to have received substantial remuneration from the aforementioned real estate groups for promotional campaigns. The ED is now examining whether the funds he received were part of the alleged fraudulent financial activities currently under investigation.

The actor has been asked to appear before ED officials on the 27th of April.

During the interrogation, he is expected to provide details about the endorsement deals, including contracts, payment structures, and the extent of his involvement in the promotional activities of the companies under scrutiny.

Promotional materials featuring Mahesh Babu—including advertisements, billboards, and cut-outs—have been widely circulated by Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group, both of which are facing allegations of financial irregularities, including possible violations of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Mahesh Babu’s corporate brands

This marks the first time that Mahesh Babu, a household name across South India and one of the highest-paid brand ambassadors in the country, has been summoned by a central investigative agency in relation to a financial probe. Known for his clean image and massive fan following, Mahesh Babu has built a parallel career in brand endorsements over the past two decades, often earning more through these deals than his film projects.

Despite the legal development, the actor’s professional commitments continue.

Mahesh Babu is currently filming a high-budget, pan-Indian adventure thriller directed by celebrated filmmaker SS Rajamouli. Touted to be a globe-trotting cinematic spectacle, the film is presently in the production phase and is expected to be one of the biggest releases in the coming years.

Mahesh Babu’s legal team has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.