The Paradise First Look Out: Mohan Babu Looks Angry, Calls It His 'Most Brutal Role'

Veteran actor Mohan Babu is set to make a fierce return to the big screen as the main antagonist in Nani’s highly anticipated film, The Paradise. The first look poster of the actor as Shikanja Maalik has been released, instantly creating a buzz among fans ahead of the film’s worldwide release on March 26, 2026.

The Paradise poster out!

The poster presents Mohan Babu in a menacing avatar, with bloodied hands, a glowing cigar, and dark glasses, exuding sheer power and menace. His appearance promises a high-voltage conflict with Nani’s emotionally layered protagonist.

Sharing the poster on social media, Mohan Babu wrote, “Playing an antagonist is always exciting for me. SHIKANJA MAALIK in #TheParadise my most brutal role – written by @odela_srikanth.

Taking on @NameisNani in my own style. See you in theaters March 26, 2026.”

Take a look:

Playing an antagonist is always exciting for me.

SHIKANJA MAALIK in #TheParadise my most brutal role – written by @odela_srikanth.

Taking on @NameisNani in my own style.

See you in theaters March 26, 2026. pic.twitter.com/qJ6ehKuw5w

— Mohan Babu M (@themohanbabu) September 27, 2025

Lakshmi Manchu praises father’s dedication

Earlier, Mohan Babu’s daughter, Lakshmi Manchu, had confirmed his role in the film and highlighted his commitment. She said, “Even at this age, my father is committed to preparing for the role. He’s been working out regularly because the part demands physical fitness. Whether it’s a debut director or a seasoned filmmaker, his passion and commitment remain unchanged. On set, he inspires everyone like a school student eager to learn.”

About the film

Directed by Srikanth Odela and produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri’s SLV Cinemas, The Paradise will release in eight languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, English, and Spanish. The film also stars Raghav Juyal in a key role, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

This marks another collaboration between Nani and Srikanth Odela, following the success of Dasara (2023), which became the highest-grossing film of Nani’s career, crossing the Rs 100 crore mark. Early teasers and songs have already created excitement.

Mega 30-acre slum set constructed

Industry insiders reveal that the team is constructing a massive 30-acre slum set on the outskirts of Hyderabad, being described as the “Baahubali of Slums.” The set, featuring a grand central arch, represents the heart of Nani’s character’s empire.

An insider explained, “The lead actor’s character comes from the slums and rises to power. To showcase the enormity of his journey, the makers have created this huge set. At the center of the slums, there will be a huge arch, which was seen in the last announcement unit and the posters of the movie. This arch serves as the epicenter of the lead character’s empire. The vision is to create the ‘Baahubali of Slums.’”