Tollywood veteran Mohan Babu, once celebrated as the ‘Collection King’ for his box-office dominance, is reinventing himself with a striking new image. In Nani’s upcoming film The Paradise, directed by Srikanth Odela, the senior actor takes on the role of the antagonist — a performance that is already generating strong buzz in the industry.
Mohan Babu, who has gradually reduced his on-screen appearances in recent years, has chosen to return in style with a role that insiders describe as “next level”. Known for his commanding screen presence and sharp dialogue delivery, the actor seems set to bring intensity and weight to the film’s villain character. Industry circles suggest his role will be the film’s biggest surprise after Nani’s.
Confirming his casting, his daughter Lakshmi Manchu recently remarked that even now, her father puts great effort into preparing for roles. She revealed that he has been training physically to fit the part, underlining his commitment despite his long and established career.
Interestingly, Mohan Babu reportedly agreed to the role after being impressed by Srikanth Odela’s work in Dasara. For the makers, having him on board has added an extra layer of appeal, doubling expectations for the project.
The actor has largely focused on family productions like Kannappa in recent times, but his decision to take up a villain role in The Paradise signals a conscious reinvention. By stepping away from heroic and fatherly characters into darker territory, Mohan Babu is showing a willingness to stretch his craft and surprise audiences once more.
Produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under SLV Cinemas, The Paradise is Nani’s most expensive project to date, with music by Anirudh Ravichander. The film is scheduled for release in March 2026, and the suspense around the female lead continues to add curiosity.
For fans, however, the real excitement lies in Mohan Babu’s reinvention. His villainous turn in The Paradise could well mark the beginning of a powerful second phase in his long career.
