Srimanthudu Nizam rights sold for 14.40 crore

The Nizam distribution rights of Mahesh Babu-starrer ‘Srimanthudu’ have been bagged by Abhishek Pictures for a whopping Rs 14.40 crore. The Nizam territory, which accounts for a lion’s share of a film’s revenue, comprises the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, Adilabad, Khammam, Karimnagar, Nalgonda, Mahbubnagar, Medak, Nizamabad, Rangareddy and Warangal.

For film trade purpose, the territory also includes the three districts of Gulbarga, Bidar, and Raichur in Karnataka and seven districts in the Marathwada region including Aurangabad, Latur, Nanded, Parbhani, Bheed, Jalna and Osmanabad.

The amount is the highest for a Mahesh flick till date. “His charisma and the expectations on the film ensured that Abhishek pays big bucks to acquire the rights,” said a source close to the production unit. The film will have a worldwide release on August 7.