Originally Intended: Mahesh Babu’s Role in Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa’s Climax Revealed

Mahesh Babu and Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa

In an intriguing revelation, director Gautham Vasudev Menon recently discussed the original vision for his 2010 film, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa. This iconic movie, which features Simbu and Trisha Krishnan, was initially intended for Mahesh Babu. On a podcast hosted by Sudhir Srinivasan, he shared insights into the alternate climax he wrote for Mahesh.

Initial Concepts and Changes

While not naming Mahesh directly, Menon described the lead character as a ‘big superstar’ whose family was behind the film’s Telugu production. Mahesh’s sister, Manjula Ghattamaneni, produced the Telugu version, Ye Maaya Chesave, featuring Naga Chaitanya and Samantha Ruth Prabhu.

In a matter of six days, Gautham developed what he envisioned as a love story, distinctly away from the action genre. He recalled, “The original conclusion was quite different. The protagonist was working on a film set and was troubled by a past love who was getting married elsewhere. In a cinematic twist, he needed to be present at her wedding.” This draft sparked a deeper emotional narrative that was ultimately never realized for Mahesh Babu.

Menon noted that when he pitched this version to Mahesh, the actor hesitated, expressing concerns that audiences expected him to perform in action films instead. “He mentioned that everyone would anticipate an action film, which is why he chose not to pursue this project,” shared Gautham.

About Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa

Ultimately, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa starred Simbu and Trisha, shot concurrently with its Telugu counterpart, Ye Maaya Chesave. Both films delve into the challenges faced by a young Hindu man and an older Malayali woman, offering insightful explorations of love and cultural boundaries. They received accolades, earning their place as classics in contemporary cinema.