It was on September 23, a few weeks after Mahesh celebrated his birthday last year, that Dookudu was released.  From that time, the Prince has been elevated to the status of Tollywood's unparalleled star.  It is another matter that he has, after Gabbar Singh released in May, an equal in Pawan Kalyan.  Of course, Mahesh is clever enough to know that the one giving super hits is the true superstar of the moment.  In that case, Mahesh and Pawan are today's Megastars.  Who between the two is first among equals is best left to the vicissitudes of BO.

This January saw Mahesh in a bold and bland role.  The initial euphoria of Puri-Prince combination translated into big bucks for RR Movie Makers and the distributors, but soon most of the audience saw through Businessman's tricks.  Nevertheless, the film proved that here was a Greek god-like star whom they will like to watch only on the big screen.

Before he celebrates his next birthday, Mahesh will have proved at least two points.  First there is Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu, which should (hopefully) endear him to the family audience in a much more effective way than Dookudu.  Second, his film with Sukumar, if it is a mass film, could end up giving Rajamouli a run for his money.

IndiaGlitz wishes the tantalizingly beautiful icon of Tollywood a very happy birthday!