SS Rajamouli’s Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic hits roadblock for Jr NTR, Prabhas!

Dadasaheb Phalke, hailed as the father of Indian cinema, is inspiring not one but two major film projects. While Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani are reportedly all set to kickoff their version soon, the much-anticipated biopic produced by SS Rajamouli appears to have hit a roadblock. The film, set to be directed by Nitin Kakkar, has reportedly been placed on the back burner for Jr NTR and Prabhas.

Related Story: Rajkumar Hirani to roll with Aamir Khan’s Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic first; Ranbir Kapoor project pushed!

Casting Switch from Jr NTR to Prabhas

According to reports, Jr NTR was the first choice to play the lead in Rajamouli’s ambitious project. However, due to his tight schedule, the makers began considering Prabhas as a replacement. But even that plan seems to have hit a snag as the Baahubali star’s calendar is already full for the next two years.

Prabhas’ Hectic Schedule Creates Delays

As per the report by Mid-Day, a dource revealed, “He is busy for the remainder of 2025 and through early 2026. Prabhas begins shooting for Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit later this year, and will move to Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD Part 2 when that goes on floors.”

With both top stars occupied, the production has been forced to take a step back, leaving the project in limbo for now.

Nitin Kakkar Shifts Focus to Awarapan 2 

On the other hand, rather than waiting indefinitely for the Dadasaheb Phalke film to take shape, Nitin Kakkar has turned his attention to another venture- Awarapan 2. The sequel, featuring Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani, is currently being filmed in Thailand.

A source stated, “Kakkar didn’t want to sit idle waiting for the Phalke project to clear its hurdles. It made sense to move ahead with Awarapan 2.” 

As of now, the biopic will reportedly resume only once an available and fitting star can be finalised.

Phalke’s Grandson Voices Displeasure

Notably, Dadasaheb Phalke’s grandson, Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, expressed his disappointment over not being consulted about the film.

In a conversation with Amar Ujala, he said, “I have been hearing discussions about Rajamouli’s project but he never contacted me for it. No one spoke to me on behalf of Rajamouli. If someone is making a film on Phalke ji, then at least the family should be talked to.” 

However, Pusalkar seems to be quite positive for Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani's project.

Must Read: Jr NTR and SS Rajamouli teaming up for biopic of Dadasaheb Phalke!

Uncertain Future for the Biopic

Between the scheduling hurdles of Jr NTR and Prabhas and the family’s concerns, Rajamouli’s Dadasaheb Phalke biopic finds itself at a crossroads. For now, the much-awaited tribute to the pioneer of Indian cinema remains on hold, waiting for the right star and the right moment to come alive.