Undoubtedly, on his 49th birthday today, Tamil superstar Vijay has expanded his fan base in the Telugu states with his exceptional acting skills and mesmerizing dance moves.
One aspect that has been garnering significant attention is the intense competition for the Telugu rights of his upcoming movie.
Given Vijay's immense popularity and the reputation of director Lokesh Kanagaraj in Tollywood, it has been reported that the producers are demanding a staggering sum of Rs 27 crore for the Telugu theatrical rights of 'Leo.'
This price point is unprecedented and serves as a testament to Vijay's enormous appeal in the Telugu market.
To provide some perspective, Varasudu currently holds the record as Vijay's highest-grossing Telugu dubbed movie, with a collection of 15 crores.
The theatrical rights for 'Leo' are being quoted at nearly double the collections of Varasudu, highlighting the immense demand for the film.
Rumors are circulating that two or three top production houses in Tollywood are actively competing for the rights, showcasing the fierce battle surrounding this movie. An official announcement regarding the rights deal is expected to be made in the near future.
Coinciding with Vijay's birthday, the first look of 'Leo' was unveiled on Thursday. The poster showcases Vijay in a mass avatar, gripping a hammer firmly in his hand.
This captivating first look has taken social media by storm, quickly going viral and generating a tremendous buzz.
Reports indicate that director Lokesh Kanagaraj has infused 'Leo' with intense gangster action sequences while intertwining them with a heartfelt father-son relationship.
Trisha, Vijay's frequent on-screen partner, has been cast as the female lead in the film, marking their fifth collaboration. Notably, this movie marks their reunion after a hiatus of 14 years.
Additionally, Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt will be seen portraying Vijay's father, adding further anticipation to this highly awaited film.