Kenya is currently playing host to some of the biggest names in Indian cinema as filming kicks off for the much-anticipated Sh20 billion ($135 million) blockbuster, SSMB29.
Touted as one of the largest film productions in Asian cinema history, the project has brought global attention to Kenya’s cinematic potential and breathtaking landscapes.
At the helm of this ambitious venture is S. S. Rajamouli, the internationally acclaimed Indian director, screenwriter, and storyteller known for his epic films such as Baahubali and RRR.
With a career spanning over two decades, Rajamouli’s works are revered for their powerful storytelling, stunning visuals, and cultural depth — a combination that has captivated audiences from Mumbai to Manhattan.
Now, Rajamouli brings his vision to Africa, leading a 120-member crew for the production of SSMB29, with Kenya selected as the primary filming location following a competitive location-scouting tour across East Africa, including Uganda and Tanzania.
Rajamouli was on Tuesday hosted by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, on Tuesday.
Adding further star power to the production is award-winning actress Priyanka Chopra, who is in the country filming high-octane action scenes for the movie.
Chopra, who rose to international fame after winning Miss World 2000, is one of India’s highest-paid actresses and has received numerous accolades, including two National Film Awards and five Filmfare Awards.
On Saturday, Chopra gave her global fanbase a glimpse of Kenya’s natural splendor by posting photos and videos from a luxury wilderness camp, captioned with a simple word: “Lately.”
Filming for SSMB29 began in April 2025, and the movie is planned as a two-part series.
According to sources close to the production, nearly 95 per
cent of the African scenes are being shot in Kenya.
From the iconic Masai Mara plains to the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha, the rugged beauty of Samburu, and the majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli, Kenya’s varied and photogenic landscapes are now woven into the fabric of SSMB29.
“For Kenya, this decision goes beyond cinema; it is a landmark moment that showcases the country’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and unmatched hospitality to a global audience,” said Mudavadi after meeting with Rajamouli.
He added that Kenya’s involvement in such a high-profile project represents a step forward in positioning the country not only as a top tourist destination but also as a growing hub for international film production and cross-cultural collaboration.
Mudavadi emphasised the government's commitment to supporting international film projects and strengthening ties with global creative industries.
He noted that such ventures could open doors for local talent, create jobs, and boost the economy through tourism and hospitality.
Scheduled for global release across 120 countries, SSMB29 is expected to reach over one billion viewers worldwide, a figure that underscores the immense scale and ambition of the project.
