South Superstar Mahesh Babu Summoned by ED in Real Estate Money Laundering Case
Hyderabad, April 22 – Telugu cinema superstar Mahesh Babu has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in connection with a money laundering case involving two Hyderabad-based real estate companies — Sai Surya Developers and Surana Group. The ED has scheduled the questioning for April 27.
ED Targets Actor Over Endorsement Deal
According to ED sources, Mahesh Babu had received ₹5.9 crore from Sai Surya Ventures as part of an endorsement deal. Of this, ₹3.4 crore was transferred through official banking channels, while ₹2.5 crore was allegedly paid in cash. Officials suspect that the cash payment may have originated from illegal earnings linked to real estate fraud.
Controversial “Green Meadows” Project Under Scrutiny
Mahesh Babu was the brand ambassador for Sai Surya Developers’ “Green Meadows” project, which is now under investigation. His endorsement reportedly influenced many buyers to invest in the project, unaware of the alleged fraud. While the actor is not directly accused, the ED is probing the money trail connected to his endorsement.
Massive Raids Conducted Across Hyderabad
Earlier this week, the ED carried out raids at multiple locations, including Secunderabad, Jubilee Hills, and Bowenpally. These actions targeted properties associated with Surana Group and Sai Surya Developers. The raids are part of a wider probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Multiple Complaints Filed Against Developers
The case came to light after a 32-year-old software engineer filed a complaint against Sai Surya Developers and its promoter, Kancharla Satish Chandra Gupta. The complaint, registered at Madhura Nagar Police Station, alleges fraud in the “Green Meadows” venture located in Shadnagar. Over ₹3 crore was invested in the project by several individuals in April 2021.
List of Affected Investors Grows
Other known investors in the project include Dr. Sudhakar Rao, Srikakulam Vithal Mahesh, Rajesh, Srinath, K Harish, Kotla Shashank, Ravi Kumar, K Prabhavati, Venkata Rao, and Krishna Mohan. ED is examining financial links between these investments and the alleged money laundering operations.
No Direct Charges Against Mahesh Babu Yet
While Mahesh Babu is currently not facing direct allegations, ED expects full cooperation from him in the ongoing investigation. His association with the project is under the scanner primarily due to the financial compensation he received from the developers.
Mahesh Babu’s Take on Bollywood and Upcoming Film
Mahesh Babu, a pan-India star, had previously stirred controversy by stating in an interview that “Bollywood can’t afford me,” explaining his absence from the Hindi film industry. He is currently filming SSMB29 alongside Priyanka Chopra, who is reportedly being paid ₹30 crore — the highest-ever fee for a Bollywood actress. The film is directed by S.S. Rajamouli and also features Prithviraj Sukumaran in a key role.
