Pawan Kalyan has realised that after 'Gabbar Singh' and 'Atharintiki Daredi' became super hits, not only did his fan base increase, big brands too have been approaching him with endorsement offers.
A major soft drink brand had approached Pawan to be their brand ambassador. "Mahesh Babu was their ambassador for long and the company wanted a new person. So they approached Pawan Kalyan and the actor had initially agreed," says a source.
However, rumour is Pawan asked for almost 50 percent more than what Mahesh Babu was being paid and the company is now in two minds!
The source added that Pawan had quoted the inflated figure because trade pundits had predicted that 'Atharintiki Daredi' might cross the Rs 100-crore mark. However, it now looks that the film will stop at around Rs 90 crore.
"Pawan Kalyan miscalculated. He missed a good chance," adds the source.
The company now wants to renew Mahesh Babu's contract or they might sign up actor Ajith, whose latest Tamil film 'Aarambham' crossed the Rs 100-crore mark in just three weeks.
A liquor company too had approached Pawan, but the actor had turned it down as he doesn't want to endorse liquor.
He had also refused an offer from a jewellery brand, which Jr NTR had been endorsing till date. Ditto with a two-wheeler company.
However, these calculations might change once Mahesh Babu's '1' releases. If it is a success, he will once again become the favourite of advertisers.
Pawan Kalyan, meanwhile, is interested in producing films.
"He is now personally looking after the scrip of his upcoming project 'Gabbar Singh 2' and wants to continue doing so in the future," says the source.
There are also rumours that the actor might take a plunge into politics in the near future. The actor is also seen at audio functions - which he never attended earlier - as he wants to connect with fans.
