Remember the adorable "Babu" from the Telugu film Simharasi? The little boy who tugged at our heartstrings with his performance has grown up and is making waves in the film industry once again.
The child actor who played the younger version of Rajasekhar in Simharasi is none other than Master Mahendran. Simharasi, directed by V. Samudra and produced by R. B. Choudary, was released in 2001. The film, starring Rajasekhar and Sakshi Shivanand, is a remake of the Tamil film Maayi. Mahendran, at the tender age of four, left a lasting impression on audiences with his emotional portrayal.
Mahendran acted in numerous films as a child artist, gaining recognition for his roles in Devi, Pedarayudu, Pelli Chesukundam, Aha, Ammai Kosam, Neekosam, and Simhadri. After a break from the screen, Mahendran returned, showcasing his versatility by portraying the middle-aged version of Vijay Sethupathi's character in Master.
Now, Mahendran is eager to establish himself as a lead actor in the Telugu film industry. He has already starred in films such as First Love and Asalem Jarugutundante, but these did not achieve significant box office success. He is currently awaiting a breakthrough role that will solidify his position as a successful hero.
Several actors in the Telugu film industry started their careers as child artists and achieved great success as lead actors. Mahesh Babu, Akhil Akkineni and Tarun are examples of actors who transitioned from child roles to leading roles.
Teja Sajja, who began his career as a child actor at the age of two in Choodalani Vundi (1998), has become a successful lead actor in Telugu cinema. He has appeared in over 20 films as a child actor alongside leading actors. In 2021, Sajja made his debut in a lead role in Zombie Reddy. He also starred in Hanu-Man (2024), which became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of 2024. He is set to appear in Mirai, a superhero film, scheduled for release on August 1, 2025.
Like Teja Sajja, Master Mahendran is hoping to make a mark as a lead actor. Photos and videos of the young actor have recently gone viral on social media.
