He gave a hit with 'Athidhi'. And given that it was a corporate film, even ended up doing all the promotional activities, despite being known to be a recluse.

Success and mass adulation are seeing Mahesh coming out of his shell and he is slowly, but steadily enjoying his share of limelight.

He is surely a hero in demand with corporates and local filmmakers wanting to make films with him. For starters, he has 'Mirchi', being produced by Dr K L Narayana and S Gopal Reddy.

If tinsel grapevine is to be believed, it's Ileana who will be playing the leading lady opposite him. Then, he has film titled Varudu (for now), with Shekhar Kammula.

He also has MS Raju's film called 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna'.

Last, but surely not the least, he has a film with sister Manjula. He is the hero who has pleased both the masses and the classes.

Naturally, all eyes are on Mahesh and the industry is already tipping him to be the next superstar.