The team of 'Maa Inti Bangaram' gathered in Hyderabad ahead of the film's June 19 release for a grand promotional event. Among those present were Samantha Ruth Prabhu, director Nandini Reddy, producer-filmmaker Raj Nidimoru and several members of the cast and crew. While the event largely focused on the upcoming film, one light-hearted exchange between Raj and host Suma quickly became the talking point of the evening.
Raj Nidimoru's Response Leaves Audience Amused
According to Hindustan Times, as Raj addressed the crowd and spoke about the people involved in making the film, enthusiastic fans continued cheering from the audience. Noticing the noise, he joked that he could not quite understand what they were saying. That's when Suma stepped in with a teasing remark, telling him that the audience wanted him to publicly tell Samantha that he loved her. Instead of obliging, Raj responded with a witty answer that drew laughter from the crowd.
“A lot of people have already told her that on stage. They’re screaming it from there, too. So, it’s nothing new.” His refusal to make a romantic declaration on stage created an amusing moment, with the audience reacting instantly to his unexpected reply.
Though Raj chose not to indulge in public displays of affection, he had plenty to say about Samantha's performance in the film. Speaking about their collaboration, he highlighted her ability to surprise him as an actor. “I realised while shooting 'Bangaram' that if we wrote the scenes in a certain way, Samantha would suddenly burst out and do it in the first take. And I realise what an incredible actor she is.”
He went on to explain how she continually brings something new to every scene. “Every time we test her with a new scene or a new edge, she shows something else that I haven’t seen before. So, it’s very exciting to work with an incredible actress like that.” Turning towards Samantha, Raj added with a smile, “I’m treating you like an actor right now. I’m talking to you like an actor.”
Why 'Maa Inti Bangaram' Feels Special to Raj
Raj also admitted that despite spending years working in Hindi-language entertainment, the excitement surrounding 'Maa Inti Bangaram' feels different.
According to him, the enthusiasm from audiences in the Telugu-speaking states has been unlike anything he has experienced before. The filmmaker has previously collaborated with Samantha on projects such as 'The Family Man' Season 2 and 'Citadel: Honey Bunny'.
Samantha Opens Up About Producer Responsibilities
Apart from playing the lead role, Samantha has also backed the film through her production banner, Tralala Moving Pictures. Speaking at the event, she confessed that the responsibilities of producing a film have brought a new kind of pressure. The actor took time to acknowledge every member of the team, stressing that a film's success is never the achievement of one individual alone.
She pointed out that while actors often receive most of the attention, countless people work behind the scenes to bring a project to life.
Samantha's Sweet Tribute to Raj & DK
When the conversation shifted to Raj and his creative partner DK, the audience erupted in cheers. Samantha appeared visibly shy before sharing her admiration for the duo. “What do I even say? There’s no such thing as luck. They show me how to be the hardest worker in the room. They don’t talk much about it, but they’re constantly working. That’s what I learnt from them.” Her comments were met with loud applause, highlighting the respect she has for her collaborators both personally and professionally.
A Significant Release for Samantha Ruth Prabhu
'Maa Inti Bangaram' marks Samantha Ruth Prabhu's return to theatres after her 2023 releases, 'Shaakunthalam' and 'Kushi'. The film is particularly significant as it is also one of her first major projects as a producer.
Samantha and Raj Nidimoru tied the knot on December 1, 2025, after being in a relationship for some time. As anticipation builds around 'Maa Inti Bangaram', the couple's candid interactions at the promotional event have added another layer of interest to the film's release.
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