Why Telugu Cinema’s Top Stars Are Under the Spotlight for Their Changing Looks

Telugu cinema stars Prabhas, Allu Arjun, Jr NTR, Ram Charan and others have dominated the global box office in recent years. However, the latest discussion around these stars is not about collections or content, but about their changing physical appearances.

In recent months, social media has been abuzz with concerns over the “strong” and “weak” looks sported by top Telugu stars, particularly Prabhas, Jr NTR and Pawan Kalyan. Fans have been closely scrutinising their favourite actors’ appearances, raising alarms whenever a star looks thinner, bulkier or sports a different hairstyle.

Producer M S Raju believes such reactions are being blown out of proportion. “Telugu superstars are constantly under a microscope, and fans tend to panic even if a star looks slightly different at a public event. But it is not something very serious,” he says. According to him, actors are required to undergo frequent makeovers to suit their roles. “They have to change their looks and work on their bodies to fit newer characters. They cannot keep repeating themselves.”

Actually, Jr NTR, Raju appearance was fine until Devara but his subsequent weight loss and thick beard received varied reactions. Some felt the styling was inconsistent and did not work as expected. “Actors and directors know what they are doing. We should wait to see how the look finally appears on screen instead of judging based on a few social media appearances or public events.”

Similarly, Prabhas’ recent appearances have raised eyebrows among fans. His off-screen looks, including a ponytail at The Raja Saab pre-release event and a rugged, muscular look with longer hair in the Spirit poster, have led to speculation. “Sandeep Reddy Vanga is known for working extensively on his actors’ appearances. He presents them with long hair, beards and sculpted physiques. Prabhas is clearly preparing for a new role,” Raju explains.

Pawan Kalyan, too, found himself at the centre of online chatter. After sporting long hair and a stylised avatar in OG, he surprised fans by cropping his hair short in real life. Rival fan groups were quick to pass negative comments. “Social media reactions should be ignored. Superstars are normal human beings and are free to look the way they want in real life. Hair length has no impact on their charisma or stardom,” Raju adds.

On the other hand, Mahesh Babu has earned appreciation for his fit appearance and long hair for Rajamouli’s Varanasi. Ram Charan and Allu Arjun have also made minimal changes between films rather than undergoing drastic makeovers, which has been well received by fans.

So, are Tollywood stars going through a lean phase in terms of looks? “I don’t think so,” Raju concludes. “Our new-age superstars are aware of evolving trends in style and presentation. These reactions are momentary, and once the films release, perceptions will change.”