Jr. NTR exits Dadasaheb Phalke biopic; here’s what we know

**Jr. NTR Exits Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic: What We Know So Far**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 9, 2025, 05:16 PM*

Telugu superstar Jr. NTR has reportedly opted out of the much-anticipated Hindi-Telugu biopic on Dadasaheb Phalke, widely regarded as the father of Indian cinema. According to reports from Deccan Chronicle, the actor is now focusing on his Telugu film career alongside Prashanth Neel’s upcoming project, *Dragon*.

### Why Did Jr. NTR Exit?

A source close to the project revealed multiple reasons behind Jr. NTR’s decision. Firstly, the actor is currently reluctant to portray a real-life personality, especially a legendary figure from the past.

The source told Deccan Chronicle, “At the moment, NTR doesn’t want to play a real-life character, and that too a legend from the past.”

Secondly, the biopic was set to be directed by S.S. Rajamouli’s son, Karthik Rajamouli, rather than Rajamouli himself, which may have influenced his choice.

Most importantly, Aamir Khan is also working on a separate Dadasaheb Phalke biopic directed by Rajkumar Hirani. The source added, “Doing another of the same serves no purpose.”

### SS Rajamouli’s Biopic Plans

Despite Jr. NTR’s exit and objections raised by Phalke’s grandson, Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, director S.S. Rajamouli is reportedly moving ahead with the biopic project.

Rumors had circulated that actor Prabhas might be approached to play the lead role, but these speculations have been dismissed by sources close to the film.

In related news, there was recent speculation that Aamir Khan requested director Rajkumar Hirani to rewrite his version of the Phalke biopic. However, reports now suggest that the project is proceeding as originally planned.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Dadasaheb Phalke biopic and the casting developments as the project progresses.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jr-ntr-exits-dadasaheb-phalke-biopic/story

Jr. NTR exits Dadasaheb Phalke biopic; here’s what we know

**Jr. NTR Exits Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic: What We Know So Far**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 9, 2025, 5:16 PM*

Telugu superstar Jr. NTR has reportedly stepped away from the much-anticipated Hindi-Telugu biopic on Dadasaheb Phalke, widely regarded as the father of Indian cinema. According to the Deccan Chronicle, the actor has chosen to focus on his Telugu film career and his role in Prashanth Neel’s upcoming film *Dragon*.

### Reasons Behind Jr. NTR’s Decision

A source close to the project revealed multiple factors that influenced Jr. NTR’s exit. Foremost, the actor is currently reluctant to portray a real-life figure, especially a legendary personality from the past. The source told Deccan Chronicle:

> “Firstly, at the moment NTR doesn’t want to play a real-life character, and that too a legend from the past. Secondly, the Phalke biopic was to be directed not by Rajamouli but by his son Karthik. Thirdly and most importantly, Aamir Khan is also working on a Dadasaheb Phalke biopic directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Doing another of the same serves no purpose.”

### SS Rajamouli’s Biopic Plans

Despite Jr. NTR’s departure and objections raised by Dadasaheb Phalke’s grandson Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, ace director SS Rajamouli is proceeding full steam ahead with the biopic project.

There were rumors that Prabhas had been considered for the lead role after NTR’s exit, but those reports have since been clarified and dismissed.

### Updates on Aamir Khan’s Biopic

Meanwhile, speculation had surfaced that Aamir Khan had requested director Rajkumar Hirani to rewrite his version of the Phalke biopic. However, recent reports confirm that Khan’s project is continuing as originally planned.

The race to bring Dadasaheb Phalke’s inspiring story to the big screen continues, with two major Hindi-Telugu productions in the pipeline. Fans eagerly await further announcements regarding casting and production details.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jr-ntr-exits-dadasaheb-phalke-biopic/story

Veteran actress Sandhya Shantaram passes away at 94

The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of legendary actress Sandhya Shantaram, who passed away at the age of 94. The veteran star, celebrated for her graceful performances and remarkable contributions to Indian cinema, breathed her last on Saturday, October 4. Her final rites were performed at Vaikunth Dham in Shivaji Park, Mumbai.

While there has been no official statement from the family regarding the cause of her demise, reports suggest that the actress passed away due to age-related complications. Sandhya’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, as she was among the last surviving icons of the golden age of Hindi and Marathi films.

Tributes have been pouring in from across the film industry and political circles, as fans and colleagues remember her incredible body of work.

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his grief. He wrote:
“Saddened by the passing of legendary actress Sandhya Shantaram Ji. Her iconic roles in films like #Pinjra, #DoAnkhenBarahHath, #Navrang, and #JhanakJhanakPayalBaaje will forever be cherished. Her remarkable talent and mesmerizing dance skills have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. 🙏 #OmShanti #LegendaryActress #CinematicIcon.”

BJP leader Ashish Shelar also paid his respects, acknowledging her impact on both Hindi and Marathi cinema. He wrote:
“Heartfelt Tribute! The news of the passing of Sandhya Shantaram ji, the renowned actress from the film ‘Pinjra’, is extremely heartbreaking. In the Marathi and Hindi film industries, she left a distinct impression on the audience’s minds with her unparalleled acting and dance skills. Her immortal roles in films like ‘Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje’, ‘Do Aankhen Barah Haath’, and especially in the film ‘Pinjra’ will forever remain etched in the hearts of the audience. May God grant eternal peace to her soul!”

Born as Vijaya Deshmukh on September 13, 1931, Sandhya rose to prominence under the direction of her husband, the legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram. Her filmography includes a series of classics that continue to be celebrated for their innovation and artistry, such as *Amar Bhoopali* (1951), *Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje* (1955), *Do Aankhen Barah Haath* (1958), *Navrang* (1959), and the Marathi masterpiece *Pinjra* (1972).

With her exceptional acting and mesmerizing dance performances, Sandhya Shantaram carved a niche for herself in Indian cinema, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate with audiences.

We at Bollywood Hungama express our heartfelt condolences to her family.

**BOLLYWOOD NEWS LIVE UPDATES**
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/veteran-actress-sandhya-shantaram-passes-away-94/