Telugu cinema’s iconic stars Venkatesh and Rana Daggubati have found themselves in legal trouble. Hyderabad Police have booked the uncle-nephew duo, along with two other family members, for an alleged illegal demolition of a hotel last year. This incident involves the Deccan Kitchen Hotel, located in the heart of Hyderabad, which was reportedly demolished in January 2024 under controversial circumstances.
The hotel had been leased to a third party, whose identity remains undisclosed. According to reports, Venkatesh, Rana, Rana’s father Suresh Babu, and his younger brother Abhiram are all named in the case. Suresh and Abhiram are well-known figures in the Telugu film industry, with both actively involved in film production.
The police stated that the demolition was carried out without following proper procedures. The complainant, believed to be the lessee, claimed they were not informed about the demolition. Allegedly, the hotel was razed without any legal notice or prior discussion, leaving them blindsided.
What Led to the Demolition?
The hotel was reportedly under lease to the complainant, and sources suggest there were ongoing disputes between the parties over the lease terms. The exact reason for the demolition remains unclear, but insiders say the Daggubati family wanted to reclaim control of the property.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the demolition happened late at night, raising suspicions about its legality. Videos of the event, which surfaced on social media, show bulldozers tearing down the structure while police and local officials were reportedly absent from the scene.
The Case So Far
The lessee filed a formal complaint last year, leading to an investigation. After gathering evidence, Hyderabad Police registered a case against the four family members. Charges include criminal trespass, property damage, and violation of municipal laws.
A senior police officer involved in the investigation said, “We are looking into all aspects of the case, including ownership documents and permissions related to the demolition. More details will emerge in the coming days.”
Industry Reactions
The news has sent shockwaves through the Telugu film industry, where the Daggubati family holds a strong reputation. Fans of both Venkatesh and Rana have taken to social media, expressing mixed reactions. While some are demanding accountability, others are defending the stars, citing their contributions to cinema and charity.
Rana, best known for his villainous role in Baahubali, has not yet addressed the allegations publicly. Similarly, Venkatesh, a veteran actor loved for his family-friendly roles, has remained silent.
Legal Trouble Looming?
If proven guilty, the case could have serious consequences for the Daggubati family. Legal experts believe the family may face hefty fines or even imprisonment, depending on the court’s verdict. The complainant has reportedly demanded compensation for the damages, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Meanwhile, sources close to the family insist that the demolition was carried out in compliance with the law. They argue that the lessee had defaulted on payments and violated lease agreements, leading to the action.
What’s Next?
As of now, no arrests have been made. The police are still collecting evidence and statements from all parties involved. Court proceedings are expected to begin soon.
This incident has undoubtedly put the spotlight on the Daggubati family, whose influence extends far beyond films. Fans and industry insiders will be watching closely to see how this legal battle unfolds.
For now, the Hyderabad skyline misses the iconic Deccan Kitchen, which stood as a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether it will be rebuilt or remain a controversial memory is a question only time can answer.
