In an interview, Mahesh Babu took stock of his career after the blockbuster hit, 'Pokiri' (2006). The film's success made him think about what he should do to satisfy his fans even more.

It was in 2007 that he wanted to take a 6-month break after 'Athidhi'. "That break went on and on for the next 3 years. It was a learning experience for me. My grandmother, who I was very close to, died during those years. My wife's parents too died. And Gautham was too young. During those years, Namrata was of great support for me," Mahesh said.

It was during this phase that Mahesh dazzled on the small screen by going in for a few endorsements. "Those days, it was something unusual for Telugu stars to do ads," he said. He agreed with the host's description that downs are actually ups for him!