On April 22, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) issued a notice to Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering involving two Hyderabad-based real estate firms, Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group. The ED's probe, which has been drawing significant media attention, centers around claims of widespread fraudulent practices and financial irregularities linked to these companies.
Reports indicate that Mahesh Babu, who has endorsed various projects associated with these developers, allegedly received a total of ₹5.9 crore for his promotional work. This amount was split between ₹3.4 crore paid via cheque and ₹2.5 crore in cash, the latter of which has raised red flags among investigators. The ED suspects that the cash payment may be tied to illicit funds generated through the alleged fraudulent activities of these real estate firms.
The investigation was initiated following multiple FIRs filed by the Telangana Police against the owners of Sai Surya Developers and Surana Group, specifically K Satish Chandra Gupta and Narendra Surana. These FIRs accuse the firms of defrauding investors by selling plots in unauthorized layouts, reselling the same plots to multiple buyers, and providing false guarantees regarding property registration.
As part of the investigation, the ED conducted raids on April 16 at various locations in Secunderabad, including Jubilee Hills and Bowenpally. During these raids, officials seized incriminating documents and a significant amount of unaccounted cash, totaling around ₹100 crore. This included ₹74.5 lakh found at the premises of the Surana Group. The ED's findings suggest that the accused parties orchestrated fraudulent schemes that resulted in substantial financial losses for many unsuspecting investors.
According to sources, Mahesh Babu's endorsement of the projects has played a crucial role in establishing public trust in these developers, drawing in buyers who were unaware of the ongoing fraud. While there is currently no evidence implicating the actor in the operational aspects of the scam, the ED is scrutinizing the payments he received as part of its broader investigation.
The ED's inquiry falls under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, and aims to uncover the extent of financial misconduct associated with the two real estate companies. Investigators are particularly focused on how the alleged fraudulent funds were diverted and laundered.
In light of these developments, Mahesh Babu has been summoned to appear before the ED for questioning on April 28, 2025. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this situation will impact the actor’s career and public image.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Mahesh Babu is currently engaged in the production of his latest film, directed by SS Rajamouli and featuring Priyanka Chopra in the lead role. The film, which commenced production earlier this month, has generated excitement among fans, but the backdrop of this investigation casts a shadow over the actor's professional endeavors.
As the ED continues its investigation, the implications for Mahesh Babu and the associated real estate firms are significant. The agency's efforts to uncover the truth behind the payments and the broader financial misconduct in the real estate sector could lead to further legal repercussions for those involved.
In summary, the ED's investigation into Mahesh Babu's endorsements of projects tied to Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group highlights the complex interplay between celebrity endorsements and corporate accountability. As the actor prepares for questioning, the situation serves as a cautionary tale about the potential ramifications of financial dealings in the entertainment industry.
