According to the latest reports, music composer Devi Sri Prasad is officially stepping into the lead role in Yellamma, directed by Balagam fame Venu Yeldandi and produced by top Telugu producer Dil Raju. This is a huge twist in casting for one of Tollywood’s most discussed projects in recent years.
Yellamma has been in development for quite some time. After the blockbuster success of Balagam, director Venu planned this film as a larger, emotional, pan-Indian story. Initially, Nani was considered for the lead role, and even Dil Raju confirmed publicly. However, Nani, known for his sharp script sense and judgment, wasn’t fully convinced and eventually opted out after long discussions.
The story then reached Nithiin, who spent nearly a year collaborating with Venu. But after consecutive flops like Robinhood and Thammudu, the producer lost confidence and decided to move away from that plan.
Recently, there was speculation that Bellamkonda Sai Srinivas would take up the role. His father, producer Bellamkonda Suresh, was even expected to support the project financially. However, before those talks could progress, the situation changed once again.
Now, in a shocking twist, Devi Sri Prasad has reportedly been finalized as the film’s lead. While he has appeared in brief cameos before, Yellamma will be his first full-fledged acting role. For many, it’s hard to imagine DSP as a hero. His energetic stage performances are loved by fans, but holding audience attention in a theatre is a different challenge altogether. Since the project was earlier rejected by Nani who has a fine judgment when it comes to scripts, his decision to walk away might influence public perception negatively, casting doubts on DSP’s debut film.
If this move materializes, it will be one of the most unexpected casting decisions in recent Telugu cinema: A celebrated music director making his acting debut in a top banner like Dil Raju production with a script that has passed through several actors before landing at his door.
