Telugu director Venu Yeldandi is facing unexpected hurdles with his second film project, after several leading actors backed out one after another. The project, locked under Sri Venkateswara Creations, has been delayed mainly due to casting and budget issues.
Venu, who rose to fame with the hit film Balagam, had finalised his next script some time ago. The story was liked by producer Dil Raju, who agreed to produce it under his banner. However, the project has not yet taken off as planned.
Initially, the film was expected to star Nani in the lead role. But for reasons that were never made public, he opted out. Later, the makers confirmed Nithiin as the hero, even revealing the film’s title during a press meet. Just when the team was ready to go on set, Nithiin too stepped away from the project.
This back-to-back exit of top heroes has left Venu in a tough spot. Industry insiders are questioning why he is still tied to one production house when other producers are reportedly ready to take on the film. Sources say Venu cannot move the project elsewhere because it has already been locked with Dil Raju’s banner.
Currently, talks are underway with Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, a Tier 2 hero, and discussions are said to be in the final stages. Whether he takes up the project or not remains to be seen.
The film, titled Yellamma, has generated strong buzz, especially after the success of Balagam. But casting delays and budget uncertainties have kept it from going on floors. Fans and industry watchers are now eager to see if Venu’s much-awaited second directorial venture will finally take off.
