Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu has found himself in the midst of controversy after receiving a notice from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an ongoing money laundering investigation. The case is linked to fraudulent practices by two real estate firms—Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group—who are accused of duping investors by selling unauthorized plots, re-selling the same plots to multiple parties, and providing fake registration guarantees.
According to a report in Times of India, Mahesh Babu was issued the notice for allegedly endorsing projects promoted by the two developers.
Reports state that the actor received Rs 5.9 crore for his endorsement, out of which Rs 3.4 crore was paid through cheque and the remaining Rs 2.5 crore was allegedly given in cash. This unaccounted cash transaction has now come under the ED’s scanner.
The ED reportedly suspects that the cash payments made to Mahesh Babu could have been part of the firms’ laundered money.
“The actor’s endorsement of the projects is believed to have played a significant role in building public trust and drawing in buyers,” the report stated.
The developers, now under investigation, are accused by Telangana Police of defrauding buyers through unauthorized and illegal practices. FIRs have been registered against them for financial irregularities.
However, it is important to note that, as of now, there is no evidence suggesting Mahesh Babu was involved in the operational aspects of the alleged scam.
The ED is investigating only the financial transactions related to the actor. “There is currently no indication that the actor was involved in the operational aspects of the scam,” the article clarified. Officials are solely looking into the source and nature of the money he received, especially the unaccounted cash.
Further reports state that authorities have recovered evidence pointing to questionable transactions totaling up to Rs 100 crore as part of the larger investigation.
Despite the legal trouble, Mahesh Babu remains focused on his career. He is currently busy filming his next major project, directed by SS Rajamouli. The movie, which went into production earlier this month, also stars global icon Priyanka Chopra in the lead role. This collaboration between two of India’s biggest stars and one of its most celebrated directors has generated immense buzz in the film industry.
While fans await clarity on the outcome of the investigation, Mahesh Babu’s team has yet to issue an official statement regarding the ED notice.
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