Speaking at the audio release function of Rebel, Lawrence peppered his talk with praises for Prabhas. "Prabhas is a kind of person who values his friendship. He always wants to live up to his image."

There are valid reasons for the delay, according to the director. "I narrated a story to Prabhas, who then gave me some suggestions. He wanted a mass appeal. I made suitable changes. It was Prabhas who suggested the title. When we are making a film with a name like Rebel, one has to be very careful," he said.

"We wanted to rope in Sharath Kumar for a key role. When Prabhas suggested that Krishnam Raju garu's name will be more apt, suitable changes had to be made, which took time."

"Because I hail from the mass section, I know mass pulse better," he further said.

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