Explained: All about the Manchu Manoj-Mohan Babu family feud

Manchu Manoj and Mohan Babu

The Telugu film industry has recently been shaken by a family feud involving veteran actor Mohan Babu and his youngest son, Manchu Manoj. The controversy began when Mohan Babu filed a complaint against Manoj and his wife, Mounika, alleging that they forcibly occupied his home in Jalpally, Hyderabad. In response, Manoj accused unidentified individuals of entering his house and causing injuries during a confrontation. This public spat has drawn significant media attention and revealed deeper, long-standing issues within the Manchu family.

The Mohan Babu family

Mohan Babu, a renowned Telugu actor and producer, has had a prolific career with over 500 films to his credit. He has three children: Manchu Vishnu, Manchu Lakshmi, and Manchu Manoj. Vishnu and Lakshmi are from his first marriage to Vidya Devi, while Manoj is his son with Vidya's younger sister, Nirmala Devi, whom he married after Vidya's demise. Each of his children has made a name for themselves in the Telugu film industry, both as actors and producers.

Manoj, the youngest of the siblings, married Bhuma Mounika Reddy in March 2023, and they have a seven-month-old daughter named Devasena. This is the second marriage for both Manoj and Mounika. Vishnu, married to Viranica Reddy, moved to Dubai in 2023 with their four children. Lakshmi, married to Andy Srinivasan, recently relocated to Mumbai with their daughter.

The feud

The feud within the Manchu family is not a recent development. Reports suggest that tensions between Manoj and Vishnu have been brewing for years, primarily revolving around the division of family business and properties. Mohan Babu's substantial wealth includes various educational institutions, such as Mohan Babu University and Sree Vidyanikethan Educational Trust. While Vishnu has been given significant roles in these institutions, Manoj has reportedly not been accorded a similar status, which has been a major point of contention.

Additionally, the Manchu family reportedly did not approve of Manoj's marriage to Mounika, which may have further strained relations. Manoj and Mounika's wedding took place in Lakshmi Manchu's home in Hyderabad in a low-key ceremony, hinting at underlying familial tensions.

Business and personal conflicts

Mohan Babu's business empire includes the production company Sree Lakshmi Prasanna Pictures and co-ownership in two others, 24 Frames Factory and Manchu Entertainment. Vishnu owns 24 Frames Factory, while Lakshmi owns Manchu Entertainment. Manoj launched his own production house, MM Arts, in 2019, without his father's support. His first project, Aham Brahmasmi, co-produced with his mother Nirmala Devi, has yet to be completed, indicating challenges in his independent ventures.

In March 2023, Manoj posted a video accusing Vishnu of barging into his house and assaulting his aides. Although the video was later deleted, it made headlines and suggested deeper issues between the brothers. Vishnu dismissed the incident with a cryptic tweet, which some speculated hinted at a potential reality show akin to the Kardashians, though this was denied by Manoj and Lakshmi.

#ManchuVishnu Attacks #ManchuManoj Manchu Manoj Kept Stpry On Instagram And Deleted pic.twitter.com/1ZGJnW4mYG
Mr.PowerStar (@manikaly7an) March 24, 2023

The 2024 MB University Controversy

Before the recent public spat, a whistleblower at Mohan Babu University alleged financial irregularities and mistreatment by Vishnu. These accusations caused outrage among parents, leading some to file complaints with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Manoj defended his father on social media, expressing concern for the students and pledging his support. This incident highlighted the growing fissures in the Vishnu-Manoj relationship.

Ive been made aware of concerns at @IVidyanikethan #MBUniversity from it deeply saddens me. My father, Chancellor Sri Dr. Mohan Babu garu, has always prioritized the well-being of students and the Rayalaseema community, which is reflected in the success of these institutions. Manoj Manchu (@HeroManoj1) September 14, 2024

The latest allegations

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The feud escalated in December 2024 when Mohan Babu accused Manoj and Mounika of forcibly occupying his home. Manoj countered with claims of an attack on his house by unidentified individuals, resulting in injuries. He described his father's allegations as malicious and false, suggesting a deliberate effort to defame him and create unnecessary family strife.

As of now, both Mohan Babu and Manoj have lodged police complaints against each other, raising questions about the possibility of an amicable resolution. The public nature of these disputes has put the Manchu family in the spotlight, exposing the deep-rooted issues that have plagued them for years.