Why is Rana's role in Baby worrying the makers of Baahubali?

Maverick director R Rajamouli, who is currently shooting his most expensive costume drama Baahubali, has given the film’s arch-villain Rana Daggubati a unique birthday gift.

Rana’s first look in the film was revealed on Twitter when the actor turned 29 on December 14.

The director, who is currently shooting action scenes for Baahubali in Bulgaria says, “We had released Rana’s look in Baahubali for his birthday. We thought it would be a welcome surprise for his fans.”

Rajamouli is completing the film’s critical action scenes in Bulgaria. The film is said to be the most expensive ever in Indian cinema.

“Whether it's the most expensive remains to be seen. It’s not about the money spent but how effectively

the money is used. We’re in Bulgaria right now shooting some good, never-seen-before stunts. We plan to release the film next summer,” Raja says.

Curiously, Rana, who plays one of the central characters in Baahubali, will also be seen in the Hindi film Baby, directed by Neeraj Pandey, in which he apparently has a relatively minor role.

This has become a matter of concern for the makers of Baahubali.

“There are many stars like Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu who are happy with working in South films.

"Then there are others like Rana and Dhanush who keep running off to try their luck in Bollywood. This causes a market disparity. If Rana has a small role in Baby, his pivotal role in Baahubali will suffer," a source close to Rajamouli explains.

Image: Rana Daggubati. Photograph: Abhijit Mhamunkar