Maharshi (2019 film): Difference between revisions

{{short description|2019 action drama film by Vamsi Paidipally}}

| producer      ={{ubl|[[Prasad V. Potluri]]|Param V. Potluri|Kavin Anne}}

| writer        = {{ubl|Vamshi Paidipally|[[Hari]]|Ahishor Solomon}}

| gross          = {{Plainlist|

* {{Estimation}}{{INR}}145–200 crore{{efn|''[[Sakshi (newspaper)|Sakshi Telugu]]'' estimates the film worldwide gross to be {{INR|145 crore}}.<ref name="sakshi">{{Cite web|date=2019-12-31|title=2019లో భారీ వసూళ్లు రాబట్టిన సినిమాలివే..|trans-title=Highest grossing films of 2019|url=https://www.sakshi.com/news/family/roundup-2019-special-story-tollywood-movies-1252065|access-date=2020-08-06|website=Sakshi|language=te}}</ref> ''[[Deccan Herald]]'' estimates the film worldwide gross to be over {{INR|187 crore}}.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-06-26|title=Highest-grossing Telugu movies at WW box office|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/dh-galleries/photos/baahubali-2-to-khaidi-no-150-highest-grossing-telugu-movies-at-the-worldwide-box-office-854029|access-date=2020-08-06|website=Deccan Herald|language=en}}</ref> ''[[Sakshi (newspaper)|Sakshi Post]]'' and ''[[Hindustan Times]]'' estimate worldwide gross to be {{INR|200 crore}}.<ref name="SP Budget & BO" /><ref name="HT BO">{{Cite web |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/sarileru-neekevvaru-box-office-mahesh-babu-s-film-collects-rs-103-crore-in-4-days/story-NbKjBX0WvLIZsSfFg67zbP.html|title=Maharshi, which grossed over Rs 200 crore at the box-office|website=Hindustan Times|date=14 January 2020|access-date=8 August 2020}}</ref>}}

'''''Maharshi''''' ({{translation|Great sage}}) is a 2019 Indian [[Telugu language|Telugu]]-language [[action drama film]]<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/maharshi-teaser-out-mahesh-babu-sizzles-in-vamsi-paidipally-s-action-drama-1495406-2019-04-06|title=Maharshi teaser out: Mahesh Babu sizzles in Vamsi Paidipally's action-drama|work=[[India Today]]}}</ref> directed by [[Vamshi Paidipally]] and produced by [[Sri Venkateswara Creations]], [[Vyjayanthi Movies]], and [[PVP Cinema]].<ref>{{Cite web|title='Maharishi' is Mahesh Babu's 25th film|url=https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/south-indian/maharishi-is-mahesh-babus-25th-film-1.63799734|access-date=2021-09-29|website=gulfnews.com|language=en}}</ref> The film stars [[Mahesh Babu]], [[Pooja Hegde]], and [[Allari Naresh]] while [[Jagapathi Babu]], [[Kaikala Satyanarayana]], [[Kota Srinivasa Rao]], [[Prakash Raj]], and [[Jayasudha]] play supporting roles. The [[soundtrack]] and [[Film score|score]] of the film were composed by [[Devi Sri Prasad]], while [[K. U. Mohanan]] and [[Praveen K. L.]] handled the cinematography and editing respectively. The film was released on 9 May 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-03-06|title=Maharshi&#039;s New Release Date: Mahesh Babu and Pooja Hegde starrer to release on THIS date|url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/maharshis-new-release-date-mahesh-babu-and-pooja-hegde-starrer-release-date-442401|access-date=2021-09-28|website=PINKVILLA|language=en}}</ref>

 

''Maharshi'' received mixed reviews from critics.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=Vyas|date=2019-05-22|title=Maharshi 11 days box office collections report|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/maharshi-11-days-box-office-collections-report--531345|url-status=live|access-date=2021-03-30|website=[[The Hans India]]}}</ref> Although cast performances, action sequences, plot, emotional quotent and technical aspects were praised, the film was criticized for its predictable and lengthy narrative.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2019-05-09|title=Maharshi review: Critics say it is a good film if you ignore predictable, slow and lengthy narration|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharshi-review-critics-say-it-good-film-if-you-ignore-predictable-slow-lengthy-narration-797390|url-status=live|access-date=2021-03-22|website=[[IB Times]]}}</ref> The film ranks among the [[List of highest-grossing Telugu films|highest grossing Telugu films]]. ''Maharshi'' received two [[National Film Awards]], including [[National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment|Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment]] and [[National Film Award for Best Choreography|Best Choreography]].<ref>https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1706663 {{Bare URL inline|date=May 2022}}</ref> The film also won five [[South Indian International Movie Awards]] and two awards at [[Zee Cine Awards Telugu]].

K. Rishi Kumar becomes the [[Chief Executive Officer|CEO]] of a [[US]]-based software company, ''Origin'' and a billionaire businessman. One day, he meets his close friend Kanna and his college friends and lecturers at a surprise party in [[New York City|New York]].

7 years ago, hailing from a middle-class family in [[Hyderabad]], Rishi dreams of achieving in the [[software industry]] and has a tense relationship with his father, K. Satyanarayana, a clerk in a private company who was constantly pressurized by moneylenders. Rishi moved to [[Vizag]] for his post-graduation in IIET and befriends his classmates Pooja and Ravi Shankar aka Ravi. Ajay, who is a topper in the college's entrance exam, becomes jealous after seeing Rishi surpass him in all the exams. [[Member of Parliament (India)|MP]] Bhanu Prasad, Ajay's father offers Rishi money in exchange for stepping down as the topper, but Rishi refuses.

Later, Rishi declines Pooja's proposal, feeling that it would hinder his career, and tells her that she is a burden in his heart and it affects his career. Rishi's friendship with Ravi is also spoiled When Ravi tries to mend their relationship. Ajay is selected by a top company ''Origin'' with the highest package in the college. However, he learns that Rishi developed an [[Artifical Intelligence|AI]]-based operating system and used it to get a much better opportunity in the same company. Ajay conspires to stop Rishi from attending the campus interview by accusing him of stealing the examination papers. However, Rishi is found innocent and allowed to write his exams. Within a short time, he moves to [[New York City|New York]] and becomes a leading executive in ''Origin''. However, the sudden demise of Satyanarayana leaves him shattered, following which he takes his mother to New York.

At the present, Rishi is devastated to learn from his [[professor]] Chandrasekhar that Ravi took the blame for stealing the examination papers to save him and Ravi tells Chandrashekhar not to let Rishi know about it. Ravi's father committed suicide after hearing the news of Ravi's rustication, and his marriage with his girlfriend Pallavi is called off. Rishi reunites with Ravi in the latter's hometown, where he learns that Ravi has been protesting alone against a company that plans to take away the village farmland for laying oil pipelines.

Rishi asks Vivek Mittal, a [[corporate]] businessman behind the project to exclude the village, but the latter declines, saying that it's a government project. Hence, Rishi sets up his own office in the village to attract media attention and to set a stage for Ravi to express his concerns. Pooja, now working in a gaming company, is sent by her boss, along with an assistant, to meet Rishi regarding sponsorship for a new game which she reluctantly agrees. Rishi talks to Pallavi's father and helps fix the broken alliance. Ravi is then made the village leader express their concerns of the people to the government.

Vivek provides compensation to the villagers and also gives money to one of the neighboring villagers to stop further growth of the issue. His henchmen also try to eliminate Ravi, but Rishi saves him. Ravi is hospitalized, and Vivek uses the opportunity to frame Rishi as the conspirator and make him leave the village. Rishi's mother reveals Satyanarayana's part in helping the farmers and tells him to return to the village to finish what he started.

After a farmer inspires him to practice farming, Rishi helps the farmers grow crops by leasing them and paying more money than Vivek. In a press meeting, Rishi makes a speech emphasizing the importance of agriculture and the losses faced due to the farmer's suicides. The farmers realize the value of their land, and Pooja reconciles with Rishi. Rishi's efforts are appreciated by the [[Chief Minister|CM]], and Ajay, now a leading banking official helps Rishi by exposing Vivek's misdeeds to escape from the debtors, and Vivek gets arrested. Rishi resigns as the CEO of Origin and decides to stay in his homeland promoting agriculture.

* [[Mahesh Babu]] as K. Rishi Kumar

* [[Pooja Hegde]] as Pooja, Rishi's love interest, working in Gaming company

* [[Kaikala Satyanarayana]] as Pooja's paternal grandfather

* [[Kota Srinivasa Rao]] as Pooja's maternal grandfather

* [[Jayasudha]] as Rishi's mother

* [[Nassar (actor)|Nassar]] as Chief Minister

* [[Sai Kumar (actor, born 1960)|Sai Kumar]] as Pallavi's father

* [[Rao Ramesh]] as Chandrasekhar, Rishi's professor

* [[Tanikella Bharani]] as Ravi's father

* [[Brahmaji]] as Pooja's manager

* [[Vidyullekha Raman]] as Pooja's friend

* [[Annapoorna (actress)|Annapoorna]] as Pooja's grandmother

* [[Sivannarayana Naripeddi|Sivannarayana]] as Pooja's uncle

After successfully producing three films – ''[[Munna (2007 film)|Munna]]'' (2007)'', [[Brindavanam (2010 film)|Brindavanam]]'' (2010) and ''[[Yevadu]]'' (2014) – [[Dil Raju]] announced his fourth collaboration with [[Vamshi Paidipally]] in early 2018, under [[Sri Venkateswara Creations]]. The film was launched under the tentative title ''#SSMB25'', before the title ''Maharshi'' was confirmed on 9 August 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|title='Maharshi' first look: Superstar Mahesh Babu unveils his 'Rishi' look on birthday - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/superstar-mahesh-babu-unveils-his-rishi-look-on-birthday/articleshow/65333154.cms|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Speaking to Hemanth Kumar of ''[[Firstpost]]'' about the script writing, Vamshi said  "One of the toughest parts while writing the script was adding multiple layers to the protagonist's journey. “We were quite clear that we weren’t going to tell a story. It had to be like a semi-biopic. We didn’t want to treat the character like a hero right from the beginning. It's about a character who becomes a hero in the end".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-27|title=Maharshi director Vamshi Paidipally talks about the making of the film and his relationship with Mahesh Babu-Entertainment News , Firstpost|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/maharshi-director-vamshi-paidipally-talks-about-the-making-of-the-film-and-his-relationship-with-mahesh-babu-6704511.html|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Firstpost}}</ref>

After the script work was done for a long time, [[principal photography]] of the film began in June 2018. A brief first schedule of the filming took place in [[Hyderabad]], [[Goa]] and [[Dehradun]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mahesh Babu on a strict shooting schedule for 'Maharshi' - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/mahesh-babu-on-a-strict-shooting-schedule-for-maharshi/articleshow/66710087.cms|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The team next headed to the [[United States]] for a two-month long schedule.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-08-29|title=Major portions of Mahesh Babu's 'Maharishi' to be shot in the US|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/major-portions-mahesh-babus-maharishi-be-shot-us-87455|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The News Minute|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Mahesh Babu's Maharshi to be shot in US|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/mahesh-babus-maharshi-to-be-shot-in-us-news-telugu-si2mtqcidedib.html|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Sify|language=en}}</ref> The major part of the film in the second schedule was shot in [[New York City|New York]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2018-10-22|title=Maharshi movie on-location stills leaked: Details of Mahesh Babu's role and look revealed [PHOTOS]|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharshi-movie-location-stills-leaked-details-mahesh-babus-role-look-revealed-photos-783658|access-date=2021-09-24|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref> After a delay in the U.S. schedule, filming in the region was completed by November 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mahesh Babu's 'Maharshi' team to head back to India soon for next shooting schedule - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/mahesh-babus-maharshi-team-to-head-back-to-india-soon-for-next-shooting-schedule/articleshow/66428385.cms|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>

Soon, the team resumed the shoot in Hyderabad at [[Ramoji Film City]], where a fictional village set was constructed.<ref>{{Cite web|title='Maharshi': A fictional village set to be built for the Mahesh Babu starrer - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/maharshi-a-fictional-village-set-to-be-built-for-the-mahesh-babu-starrer/articleshow/66082104.cms|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-07|title='Maharshi' team returns to India after completing shoot in the US|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/maharshi-team-returns-india-after-completing-shoot-us-91180|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The News Minute|language=en}}</ref> Vamshi initially planned to shoot the film at a real village, but later decided to shoot it in a set, as they realized that controlling the crowd in real places is tough and risky.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-22|title=Here's why the makers of Mahesh Babu's Maharshi built a huge village set in Ramoji Film City|url=https://www.bollywoodlife.com/south-gossip/heres-why-the-makers-of-mahesh-babus-maharshi-built-a-huge-village-set-in-ramoji-film-city-1314661/|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Bollywood Life|language=en}}</ref> It was reported that the set was constructed at a cost of [[Indian rupee|₹]]8 [[crore]].<ref>{{Cite magazine|date=November 22, 2018 |title=Rs 8-crore set erected for Mahesh Babu film Maharshi. This is why|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/rs-8-crore-set-erected-for-mahesh-babu-film-maharshi-this-is-why-1393867-2018-11-22|access-date=2021-09-24|magazine=India Today|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-22|title=A Rs 8 crore village for Mahesh Babu!|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/221118/a-rs-8-crore-village-for-mahesh-babu.html|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Deccan Chronicle|language=en}}</ref> The schedule lasted until the third week of December 2018. The team then took brief break, with Mahesh Babu and his family going to [[Dubai]] for a short holiday.<ref>{{Cite web|last=India|first=The Hans|date=2018-12-29|title=Mahesh to ring in New Year in Dubai|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Cinema/2018-12-29/Mahesh-to-ring-in-New-Year-in-Dubai/466290|access-date=2021-09-24|website=www.thehansindia.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=HaribabuBolineni|date=2018-12-29|title=Vacation Time for Mahesh Babu with Family in Dubai|url=https://www.chitramala.in/vacation-time-for-mahesh-babu-with-family-in-dubai-279507.html|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Chitramala|language=en-US}}</ref> Filming was resumed in the second week of January 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-12-31|title=Maharshi second look: Mahesh Babu makes a powerful impression|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/maharshi-second-look-mahesh-babu-5517581/|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> The schedule took place in [[Pollachi]], [[Tamil Nadu]], and was completed within the same month.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-01-29|title=Mahesh Babu starrer 'Maharshi' team completes Pollachi schedule|url=https://zeenews.india.com/regional/mahesh-babu-starrer-maharshi-team-completes-pollachi-schedule-2175164.html|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Zee News|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-01-21|title=Here is what's happening with 'Maharshi' - Telugu News|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/here-is-whats-happening-with-maharshi-telugu-news-227890|access-date=2021-09-24|website=IndiaGlitz.com}}</ref> The next schedule took place in February 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|last=V|first=Sai Manojna|date=2019-01-28|title=Maharshi Wraps Up Another Schedule {{!}} Mahesh Babu {{!}} #Maharshi {{!}}|url=https://www.thetelugufilmnagar.com/2019/01/28/maharshi-wraps-up-another-schedule/|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Telugu Filmnagar|language=en-US}}</ref> In February Sri Venkateswara Creations announced that the filming would be completed by 15 March 2019, except for two songs.<ref>{{Cite magazine|date=February 27, 2019 |title=Maharshi release date confirmed: Mahesh Babu film to hit screens on April 25|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/maharshi-release-date-confirmed-mahesh-babu-film-to-hit-screens-on-april-25-1466183-2019-02-27|access-date=2021-09-28|magazine=India Today|language=en}}</ref> However, the shooting of the film was [[Wrap (filmmaking)|wrapped]] up on 18 April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-18|title=Maharshi: Mahesh Babu wraps up shoot for Vamshi Paidipally's film, also starring Pooja Hegde-Entertainment News , Firstpost|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/maharshi-mahesh-babu-wraps-up-shoot-for-vamshi-paidipallys-film-also-starring-pooja-hegde-6472981.html|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Firstpost}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-18|title=Tollywood Buzz: It's a wrap for Maharshi, Varun Tej joins the sets of Valmiki|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/tollywood-buzz-mahesh-babu-maharshi-varun-tej-valmiki-5682478/|access-date=2021-09-24|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-18|title=షూటింగ్‌ కంప్లీట్‌ చేసుకున్న 'మహర్షి'|url=https://www.sakshi.com/news/movies/mahesh-babu-maharshi-movie-shooting-wrap-1181984|access-date=2021-09-24|website=Sakshi|language=te}}</ref>

The film's [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Kannada]] dubbed versions titled ''Ungalukkaga Oruvan'' and ''Veera Maharshi'' respectively were released in 2020.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ungalukkaga Oruvan - Disney+ Hotstar|url=https://www.hotstar.com/in/movies/ungalukkaga-oruvan/1260046299|access-date=2021-06-07|website=Disney+ Hotstar}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=November 2021}}

A 43-second video titled ''#MeetRishi'' was released on 9 August 2018, coinciding with Mahesh Babu's birthday.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-08-09|title=Maharshi first look: Mahesh Babu seen in typical boy-next-door avatar for his upcoming 25th film-Entertainment News , Firstpost|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/maharshi-first-look-mahesh-babu-seen-in-typical-boy-next-door-avatar-for-his-upcoming-25th-film-4924901.html|access-date=2021-09-28|website=Firstpost}}</ref> The video revealed the character played by Babu in the film.<ref>{{Cite web|last=kumar|first=ankit|title=महेश बाबू ने अपने बर्थडे पर रिलीज किया 'महर्षि' का टीजर, फैन्स हुए क्रेजी|url=https://www.india.com/hindi-news/entertainment-hindi/south-superstar-mahesh-babu-and-pooja-hegde-starer-maharishi-teaser-out-3213343/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=India News, Breaking News {{!}} India.com|language=hi}}</ref> On 10 March 2019, Mahesh Babu shared a few behind-the-scenes pictures in the social media.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshi stars Pooja Hegde opposite Mahesh Babu {{!}} Latest News & Updates at DNAIndia.com|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/photo-gallery-photos-mahesh-babu-shares-behind-the-scenes-images-from-maharshi-2728417/maharshi-stars-pooja-hegde-opposite-mahesh-babu-2728426|access-date=2021-09-28|website=DNA India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-03-10|title=Mahesh Babu shares behind the scenes photos from Maharshi|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/mahesh-babu-maharshi-behind-the-scenes-5618324/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> The official teaser of the film titled ''#JoinRishi'' was released on [[Ugadi]], 6 April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-06|title=Maharshi teaser: Mahesh Babu plays a character who doesn't like to lose, watch it here|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/maharshi-teaser-mahesh-babu-plays-a-character-who-doesn-t-like-to-lose-watch-it-here/story-t0XeUaX4q0YRTUgPDjXL7N.html|access-date=2021-09-28|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Mahesh Babu's 'Maharshi' teaser reaches 2M digital views from 1M in no time - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/mahesh-babus-maharshi-teaser-reaches-2m-digital-views-from-1m-in-no-time/articleshow/65340002.cms|access-date=2021-09-28|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-08-09|title=Maharshi teaser: Mahesh Babu makes a dashing entry as Rishi|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/maharshi-first-look-teaser-mahesh-babu-5298800/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> To promote the film, a pre-release event was held on 1 May 2019, at People's Plaza, [[Necklace Road]], [[Hyderabad]].<ref name="zeenews.india.com"/><ref>{{Cite web|last=V|first=Sai Manojna|date=2019-04-26|title=Maharshi Pre Release Event Date Locked|url=https://www.thetelugufilmnagar.com/2019/04/26/maharshi-pre-release-event-date-locked/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=Telugu Filmnagar|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-30|title=Maharshi Pre Release Event: Here&#039;s a glimpse of the grand preparation for Mahesh Babu and Pooja Hegde starrer|url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/maharshi-pre-release-event-heres-glimpse-grand-preparation-mahesh-babu-and-pooja-hegde-starrer-448695|access-date=2021-09-28|website=PINKVILLA|language=en}}</ref> The official [[Trailer (promotion)|trailer]] and complete audio album of the film were released at the event.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-01|title=Maharshi trailer: This Mahesh Babu film is a perfect treat for his fans|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/maharshi-trailer-mahesh-babu-5704853/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshi Trailer: Mahesh Babu Has No Fear Of Losing|url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/maharshi-trailer-mahesh-babu-has-no-fear-of-losing-2031566|access-date=2021-09-28|website=NDTV.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|author=Scroll Staff|title='Maharshi' trailer: Mahesh Babu plays an ambitious businessman in his 25th film|url=https://scroll.in/reel/922064/maharshi-trailer-mahesh-babu-plays-an-ambitious-businessman-in-his-25th-film|access-date=2021-09-28|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US}}</ref> Various music artistes of the soundtrack album performed songs from the film.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Team|first=DNA Web|date=2019-05-01|title=Details about Mahesh Babu's massive pre-release event of 'Maharshi' for his fans REVEALED!|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-details-about-mahesh-babu-s-massive-pre-release-event-of-maharshi-for-his-fans-revealed-2744752|access-date=2021-09-27|website=DNA India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title='Maharshi': Pre-release event date of the Mahesh Babu starrer fixed - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/maharshi-pre-release-event-date-of-the-mahesh-babu-starrer-fixed/articleshow/69054583.cms|access-date=2021-09-28|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> [[Vijay Deverakonda]] and [[Venkatesh (actor)|Venkatesh]] were the chief guests of the event.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-01|title=Maharshi Pre-release Event: Mahesh Babu, Venaktesh & Vijay Deverakonda Attend The Big Event!|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2019/maharshi-pre-release-event-live-updates-of-the-grand-event-mahesh-babu-285491.html|access-date=2021-09-28|website= filmibeat.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Arun|date=2019-05-01|title=Chief Guest Confirmed for Maharshi Pre-Release Event|url=https://panipuri.us/chief-guest-confirmed-for-maharshi-pre-release-event/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=Panipuri}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Vyas|date=2019-04-25|title=The highlight of Maharshi Pre-Release Event Revealed?|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/the-highlight-of-maharshi-pre-release-event-revealed-523965|access-date=2021-09-28|website=www.thehansindia.com|language=en}}</ref> On 16 May 2019, an interactive event titled ''Maharshulatho Maharshi'' was held in Hyderabad, in which Paidipally and Babu had a interaction/interview with the [[farmer]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Telugu|first=TV9|date=2019-05-16|title='రీల్' మహర్షితో 'రియల్' మహర్షులు..ప్రత్యేక ముఖాముఖి|url=https://tv9telugu.com/entertainment/maharshulatho-maharshi-organic-farmers-stories-with-mahesh-babu-68473.html|access-date=2021-09-28|website=TV9 Telugu|language=te}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshulatho Maharshi: Mahesh Babu Exclusive Interview with Farmers|url=https://www.ap7am.com/lv-312363-maharshulatho-maharshi-mahesh-babu-exclusive-interview-with-farmers|access-date=2021-09-28|website=ap7am.com|language=en}}</ref> Later, a similar event titled ''Repati Maharshulatho Maharshi'' was held, in which both of them interacted with the school students of [[The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet|The Hyderabad Public School]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Repati Maharshulatho Maharshi- Interaction with HPS Students - Mahesh Babu|url=https://www.ap7am.com/lv-312372-repati-maharshulatho-maharshi-interaction-with-hps-students-mahesh-babu|access-date=2021-09-28|website=ap7am.com|language=en}}</ref> Eight days after the release, an event was held at [[Vijayawada]], [[Andhra Pradesh]], to celebrate the film's success.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Aadi|first=Vishnu|date=2019-05-18|title=Maharshi Vijayotsavam Stills - Mahesh Babu, Pooja Hegde, Allari Naresh|url=https://www.mirchi9.com/gallery/maharshi-vijayotsavam-mahesh-babu-pooja-hegde-allari-naresh/|access-date=2021-09-29|website=mirchi9.com|language=en-US}}</ref> The event, titled ''Maharshi Vijayotsavam'', was held on 18 May 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|title=నా సినిమా నాకే అర్థం కాలేదు.. కాని సూపర్ స్టార్ అయ్యా: మహేష్ బాబు|url=https://telugu.samayam.com/telugu-movies/cinema-news/mahesh-babu-emotional-speech-at-maharshi-vijayotsavalu-in-vijayawada/articleshow/69390910.cms|access-date=2021-09-29|website=Samayam Telugu|language=te}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-19|title=Pooja Hegde Cleavage Show at Maharshi Success Meet|url=https://www.tollywood.net/pooja-hegde-cleavage-show-at-maharshi-success-meet/|access-date=2021-09-29|website=Tollywood|language=en-US}}</ref> In June 2019, the event ''Celebrating Maharshi'' was held at [[Shilpakala Vedika]], Hyderabad, to celebrate the film's 50 day run in 211 [[movie theater]]s across India.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mahesh Babu's Maharshi completes 50 days of unbeaten run at the box office - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/mahesh-babus-maharshi-completes-50-days-of-unbeaten-run-at-the-box-office/articleshow/69969715.cms|access-date=2021-09-29|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2019-06-24|title=Maharshi box office collection: Mahesh Babu's film set to complete 50 days in 200 theatres|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharshi-box-office-collection-mahesh-babus-film-set-complete-50-days-200-theatres-800236|access-date=2021-09-29|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref>

The film's digital rights were acquired by [[Amazon Prime Video]] for ₹11 crores,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2019-04-02|title=Maharshi digital and satellite rights sold: Did it fail to beat Mahesh Babu's BAN record?|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharshi-digital-satellite-rights-sold-did-it-fail-beat-mahesh-babus-ban-record-795114|access-date=2021-09-28|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref><ref name="cinema.suryaa.com">{{Cite web|title=Super Star's movie 'Maharshi' digital rights are 11 crores ?|url=https://cinema.suryaa.com/cinema-18136-super-stars-movie-maharshi-digital-rights-are-11-crores.html|access-date=2021-09-28|website=suryaa|language=en}}</ref> and it premiered on 3 July 2019, 54 days after the film's theatrical release.<ref name="filmibeat.com">{{Cite web|date=2019-06-25|title=Maharshi's Amazon Prime Release Date Is Out; A Big News For Mahesh Fans!|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2019/maharshi-s-amazon-prime-release-date-july-03-a-big-news-for-mahesh-babu-fans-287076.html|access-date=2021-09-28|website=filmibeat.com|language=en}}</ref> The digital and satellite rights of the Tamil and Kannada dubbed versions of the film were acquired by [[Star India]] and [[Hotstar]] respectively. The Tamil and Kannada dubbed versions of the film, titled ''Ungalukkaga Oruvan'' and ''Veera Maharshi'', premiered on [[Star Vijay]] and [[Star Suvarna]] respectively, on 18 October 2020.

''Maharshi'' received mixed reviews from the critics who praised the cast performances, action sequences, technical aspects, plot and emotional quotent while criticising the predictable and lengthy narration.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-09|title=Maharshi meta review: Mahesh Babu's film is predictable and has nothing new to offer, say critics|url=https://www.bollywoodlife.com/south-gossip/maharshi-meta-review-mahesh-babus-film-is-predictable-and-has-nothing-new-to-offer-say-critics-1408065/|access-date=2021-09-29|website=Bollywood Life|language=en}}</ref> Sangeetha Devi Dundoo of ''[[The Hindu]]'' wrote, "At the heart of Maharshi is a story that could have been leveraged to make a compelling social drama that also traces the transformative journey of an ambitious man. But there’s a huge gap between what it could have been and what it is".<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/maharshi-the-transformative-journey/article27079047.ece|title='Maharshi' review: The transformative journey|website=The Hindu|date=2019-05-09|access-date=2019-12-16|last1=Dundoo|first1=Sangeetha Devi}}</ref> ''[[The Times of India]]'''s Neeshita Nyayapati gave a rating of 3 out of 5 and wrote that "Watch it not just for Mahesh Babu and Allari Naresh’s performances but also for the story, if you don’t mind all the bells and whistles it comes with. It might not be entertaining all through, thanks to the draggy bits, but its heart is in the right place".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/maharshi/movie-review/69247969.cms|title=Maharshi Review|website=The Times of India|date=2019-05-09|access-date=2019-12-16}}{{Rating|3|5}}</ref> Writing for ''[[Hindustan Times]]'', Karthik Kumar opined "Maharshi is a problematic film with big ideas but it tugs at heartstrings. Take out the farming sub-plot, Maharshi would’ve been a tiresome watch in which Rishi just won’t shut up with his sermons on success".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/maharshi-movie-review-a-predictable-star-vehicle-for-mahesh-babu-with-a-workable-emotional-core/story-m9MzcYom52ZU8JjEcHAlKJ.html|title=Maharshi movie review: A predictable star vehicle for Mahesh Babu with a workable emotional core|website=Hindustan Times|date=2019-05-09|access-date=2019-12-16}}{{Rating|3|5}}</ref> ''[[Sify]]'' criticized the film's narration and duration. The reviewer felt that the film has predictable storyline, lacks any shred of originality, the second half is totally unsatisfied and the emotional core is not convincing.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshi Review: Predictable, leaves viewers unsatisfied|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/maharshi-review-predictable-leaves-viewers-unsatisfied-review-telugu-tfjrDLcgiccdi.html|access-date=2021-09-29|website=Sify|language=en}}</ref> [[Sakshi (newspaper)|''Sakshi Post'']] opined that acting performances of Babu and Naresh and the direction are the film's positives, while Devi's soundtrack and poor screenplay are the drawbacks of the film.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-09|title=Maharshi Review, Rating: A True Blue Mahesh Movie|url=https://english.sakshi.com/entertainment/2019/05/09/maharshi-review-movie-rating-mahesh-pooja-hegde-allari-naresh|access-date=2021-09-29|website=Sakshi Post|language=en}}</ref>

| style="text-align:center;" rowspan="2" |<ref>{{Cite news|date=2021-03-22|title=67th National Film Awards: Complete list of winners|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/67th-national-film-awards-complete-list-updating/article34131921.ece|url-status=live|access-date=2021-03-22|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

| style="text-align:center;"| <ref>{{Cite tweet|user=ZeeTVTelugu|number=1214611966850813952|title=Favorite Actor in leading role(Male)|date=7 January 2020|access-date=29 January 2020}}</ref>  

| style="text-align:center;"| <ref>{{Cite tweet|user=ZeeTVTelugu|number=1214614278604374017|title=Best Actor in leading role(Male)|date=7 January 2020|access-date=29 January 2020}}</ref>  

Although ''Maharshi'' received mixed reviews from critics, it was featured on the various year-end best film charts.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Jha|first=Author: Subhash K.|date=2019-12-26|title=Year-Ender 2019: 5 Best Telugu Films on Streaming Platform|url=https://www.iwmbuzz.com/digital/editorial-digital/year-ender-2019-5-best-telugu-films-streaming-platform/2019/12/26|access-date=2021-10-01|website=IWMBuzz|language=en}}</ref> ''[[Hindustan Times]]'' considered Allari Naresh's performance in the film as one his five best performances in his career.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-06-30|title=Happy Birthday Allari Naresh: Naandhi to Maharshi, five best performances of the actor|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/happy-birthday-allari-naresh-naandhi-to-maharshi-five-best-performances-of-the-actor-101625045325624.html|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref> Several popular personalities in India praised the film including [[Chiranjeevi]],<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2019-05-12|title=Chiranjeevi impressed with weekend agriculture concept in Maharshi|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/chiranjeevi-impressed-weekend-agriculture-concept-maharshi-797560|access-date=2021-10-01|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-13|title=Megastar Chiranjeevi praises Mahesh Babu's Maharshi|url=https://boxofficeindia.co.in/megastar-chiranjeevi-praises-mahesh-babu%E2%80%99s-maharshi|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Box Office India|language=en}}</ref> [[Sudheer Babu]], [[AR Murugadoss]], [[Sukumar]], [[Ileana D'Cruz]], [[Harish Shankar]], [[Srinu Vaitla]], [[Karan Johar]], [[Samantha Akkineni]], [[Shruti Haasan]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2019-05-10|title=Maharshi review: This is what celebs say about Mahesh Babu and Vamshi Paidipally|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharshi-review-this-what-celebs-say-about-mahesh-babu-vamshi-paidipally-797444|access-date=2021-10-01|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Celebs' reactions and fans hungama on the massive release of Mahesh Babu's 'Maharshi' - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/celebs-reactions-and-fans-hungama-on-the-massive-release-of-mahesh-babus-maharshi/articleshow/69247151.cms|access-date=2021-10-01|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Celebrities tweet about Maharshi - idlebrain.com news|url=http://idlebrain.com/news/today/tweets-maharshi.html|access-date=2021-10-01|website=idlebrain.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshi Movie Celeb Reaction: महेश बाबू की महर्षि को फैंस ने भी कहा- ब्लॉकबस्टर|url=https://www.aajtak.in/entertainment/story/mahesh-babu-film-maharshi-release-social-media-celebs-reaction-box-office-review-tmov-655610-2019-05-09|access-date=2021-10-01|website=आज तक|date=9 May 2019 |language=hi}}</ref> On 14 May 2019, [[Vice President of India]] [[Venkaiah Naidu]], has lauded the film through his [[Twitter account]], and wrote that "By portraying a rural theme, the film highlights the need for farm conservation and support for the elderly. Maharshi is a remarkable film that everyone needs to watch. It showcases the glory of the rural population and the importance of agriculture."<ref>{{Cite magazine|date=May 15, 2019 |title=Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu lauds Maharshi. Mahesh Babu is floored|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vice-president-venkaiah-naidu-lauds-maharshi-mahesh-babu-is-floored-1525413-2019-05-15|access-date=2021-10-01|magazine=India Today|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-16|title=Vice President of India Venkaiah Naidu appreciates Mahesh Babu for 'Maharshi'|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/150519/vice-president-of-india-venkaiah-naidu-appreciates-mahesh-babu-for-ma.html|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Deccan Chronicle|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-15|title=Vice President Venkaiah Naidu heaps praise on Mahesh Babu's Maharshi|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/mahesh-babu-maharshi-vice-president-venkaiah-naidu-5728818/|access-date=2021-10-01|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref>

After the release of the film, the concept of weekend farming (also known as weekend agriculture) gained more attention.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kavuluru|first=Madhav Jaswanth|title=Impact Of A Movie: People Are Doing Weekend Agriculture Inspired From Maharshi & It's Heartwarming|url=https://chaibisket.com/weekend-agriculture/|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Chai Bisket|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-13|title=Mahesh Maharshi Inspires Weekend Agriculture As Farming Catches On With Genext|url=https://english.sakshi.com/entertainment/2019/05/13/mahesh-maharshi-inspires-weekend-agriculture-as-farming-catches-on-with-genext|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Sakshi Post|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshi Weekend Farming: 'మహర్షి' తెచ్చిన మార్పు.. విప్లవంలా వీకెండ్‌ వ్యవసాయం|url=https://telugu.samayam.com/telugu-movies/cinema-news/mahesh-babu-starrer-maharshis-weekend-farming-concept-goes-viral/articleshow/69295937.cms|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Samayam Telugu|language=te}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-12|title=Mahesh Babu-starrer Maharshi's weekend farming concept going viral – view pics|url=https://www.bollywoodlife.com/south-gossip/mahesh-babu-starrer-maharshis-weekend-farming-concept-going-viral-view-pics-1409634/|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Bollywood Life|language=en}}</ref> A new [[List of Internet phenomena|internet challenge]]. i.e. Agriculture Challenge was started, with several people do farming in the weekends.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=2019-05-12|title=Maharshi impact: Mahesh Babu's weekend farming leads to #AgricultureChallenge trend|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharshi-impacts-mahesh-babus-weekend-farming-leads-agriculturechallenge-trend-797546|access-date=2021-10-01|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref> [[The Statesman (India)|''The Statesman'']] reported that the film has created a social impact on the youth and raised awareness about the issues faced by farmers in the rural heartland.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-27|title=Mahesh Babu's Maharshi creating a social impact on the youth|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/mahesh-babus-maharshi-creating-social-impact-youth-1502759381.html|access-date=2021-10-01|website=The Statesman|language=en-US}}</ref> In February 2020, [[Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies]] organized the contest "Campus Farming". 250 students of the University participated in this contest.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-02-03|title=Mahesh Babu film "Maharishi" inspires students to farming|url=https://www.siasat.com/mahesh-babu-film-maharishi-inspires-students-farming-1813777/|access-date=2021-10-01|website=The Siasat Daily|language=en-US}}</ref>

At an event in May 2019, Mahesh Babu revealed that the character he played and the film made a huge impact on his life.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-09|title=Mahesh Babu on how he experimented with his looks for Maharshi, and taking a break from social dramas-Entertainment News , Firstpost|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/mahesh-babu-on-how-he-experimented-with-his-looks-for-maharshi-and-taking-a-break-from-social-dramas-6598101.html|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Firstpost}}</ref> He further said that "Once you live in a village, it becomes a part of you. Two years ago, when I first heard the script, I was a different man, the film has changed me and helped me reconnect with my roots. I’m a new Mahesh Babu today".<ref>{{Cite web|title=Maharshi was life-changing; I'm a whole new Mahesh today - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/maharshi-was-life-changing-im-a-whole-new-mahesh-today/articleshow/69374226.cms|access-date=2021-10-01|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>