Superstar sons Mahesh Babu, Jr NTR, Ram Charan Tej, Naga Chaitanya and Allu Arjun (as Chiranjeevi’s nephew) became superstars overnight, while children of other industry insiders like Ram, Prabhas, Rana, Gopichand have to slug it out to attain their positions. According to sources, star sons also demand more money. They ask for Rs 5 crore to Rs 8 crore per film, while others ask between Rs 1 crore and Rs 3 crore.
Reigning star Mahesh Babu, son of superstar Krishna, feels that his father’s fan following gave him an edge. “My dad’s fans showered the love and affection they felt for him on me initially. But ultimately your talent and work stands out,” he says. Ram Charan Tej established himself as a big league star with just three films, which includes the blockbuster Magadheera. “I thank my fans for making me a star, but living up to their high expectations is daunting at times,” he adds.
But there is a price to pay for all good things. At times, Mahesh Babu, Jr NTR and Ram Charan have to do roles their fathers would have done to make their fans happy. But actors like Naga Chaitanaya have decided not to do so. Although, his grandfather (ANR) and father (Nagarjuna) attained lover boy image on screen, Naga Chaitanya doesn’t want to do the same. “I intend to surprise the audience. I want to chalk out my own path and my next film Dhada will showcase my fiery spirit,” he says.
Things were not easy for Ram, kin of producer Sravanthi Ravi Kishore. “My debut Devadasu
didn’t open well and we went through anxious moments before it turned out to be a blockbuster. Finally, the audience connects to the talent and hard work,” he reasons.
Going a step further, actor Rana, son of producer Suresh Babu, feels that a film-maker’s son can explore new roles, unlike stars sons who have to give the audience what they want. “That’s the freedom we cherish since we don’t need to carry the burden of family image,” he concludes.
