**The Paradise: See Mohan Babu’s Villain Avatar as Shikanja Maalik**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 27, 2025, 03:24 PM*

Veteran actor Mohan Babu has been revealed as the main antagonist, Shikanja Maalik, in Nani’s upcoming film *The Paradise*. The first-look poster, released on Saturday, has generated a wave of excitement ahead of the movie’s worldwide release scheduled for March 26, 2026.

In the striking poster, Mohan Babu appears in a chilling avatar with bloodied hands and a lit cigar, clearly hinting at his menacing role in the film.

**Social Media Buzz**

The film’s official social media handle amplified the reveal by sharing the poster with the caption:
*”Naam hai Shikanja Maalik. The Dark Lord of cinema rises again. Bringing back the legendary @themohanbabu Garu as Shikanja Maalik in #TheParadise to reclaim the peak of villainism.”*

Meanwhile, Nani expressed his admiration for Mohan Babu’s role on X (formerly Twitter), stating,
*”There are great heroes and there are great villains. He is that and this and a lot more.”*

**Actor’s Commitment**

Lakshmi Manchu, Mohan Babu’s daughter, had previously confirmed her father’s role in *The Paradise*. She praised his discipline and dedication, revealing that he has been working out regularly to prepare for this physically demanding role.

“Whether it’s a debut director or a seasoned filmmaker, his passion and commitment remain unchanged,” she remarked, highlighting his enduring enthusiasm for the craft.

**Star-Studded Cast and Production**

Alongside Mohan Babu and Nani, the movie also features Raghav Juyal in a pivotal role. Directed by Srikanth Odela and produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under SLV Cinemas, *The Paradise* is set to be released in eight languages, catering to a diverse audience.

**Director’s Journey**

*The Paradise* marks another ambitious collaboration between director Srikanth Odela and actor Nani, following their successful project *Dasara* (2023). *Dasara* was not only a critical success but also crossed the ₹100 crore mark, becoming the highest-grossing movie of Nani’s career.

The film’s music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, adding to the movie’s high expectations.

Stay tuned for more updates as *The Paradise* gears up for its release next year!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/the-paradise-mohan-babu-looks-fierce-in-first-look/story

**The Paradise: See Mohan Babu’s Villain Avatar as Shikanja Maalik**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 27, 2025, 03:24 PM*

Veteran actor Mohan Babu has been unveiled as the main antagonist, Shikanja Maalik, in Nani’s highly anticipated upcoming film *The Paradise*. The first-look poster, released on Saturday, has already stirred excitement among fans ahead of the worldwide release scheduled for March 26, 2026.

In the chilling poster, Mohan Babu is seen with bloodied hands and a lit cigar, perfectly hinting at his dark and menacing role in the film. The movie’s official social media handle dubbed him “The Dark Lord of cinema” and wrote:
“*Naam hai Shikanja Maalik. The Dark Lord of cinema rises again. Bringing back the legendary @themohanbabu Garu as Shikanja Maalik in #TheParadise to reclaim the peak of villainism.*”

Directed by Srikanth Odela and produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under SLV Cinemas, *The Paradise* promises a gripping narrative matched by a stellar cast.

Nani took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his admiration for Mohan Babu, stating, “There are great heroes and there are great villains. He is that and this and a lot more.”

### Actor’s Commitment

Lakshmi Manchu, Mohan Babu’s daughter, had earlier confirmed his role in the film and praised his unwavering dedication to the project. She revealed that Mohan Babu has been rigorously working out to prepare for the physically demanding villainous character. She emphasized, “Whether it’s a debut director or a seasoned filmmaker, his passion and commitment remain unchanged.”

The film also features Raghav Juyal in a pivotal role and will have a grand release in eight languages, further broadening its reach.

### Director’s Journey with *The Paradise*

For director Srikanth Odela, *The Paradise* is a follow-up to his successful collaboration with Nani on the 2023 blockbuster *Dasara*. *Dasara* crossed the 100 crore mark at the box office, becoming the highest-grossing film of Nani’s career.

Adding to the film’s appeal is the music by renowned composer Anirudh Ravichander, promising a captivating auditory experience.

With a powerful villain, a celebrated lead, and a skilled director at the helm, *The Paradise* is gearing up to deliver a memorable cinematic experience when it releases worldwide next year.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/the-paradise-mohan-babu-looks-fierce-in-first-look/story