Tue Apr 22 04:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Telugu Actor Mahesh Babu Summoned in Money Laundering Probe
**Hyderabad, India** – Telugu film star Mahesh Babu has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case involving two Hyderabad-based real estate firms, Sai Surya Developers and Surana Group. Babu is scheduled to appear before the ED on April 28th.
The ED’s investigation stems from a Telangana Police case alleging that the real estate companies defrauded numerous homebuyers through the sale of non-existent plots and double-registration of land. The ED seized approximately ₹100 crore (approximately $12 million USD) during searches on April 16th, indicating large-scale fraudulent activity.
While Mahesh Babu is not accused of directly laundering money, the ED is investigating whether he received funds from the companies in connection with his endorsement deals. He reportedly received ₹5.9 crore (approximately $715,000 USD) for endorsing the groups, and the ED is probing whether this endorsement led to increased investment in the fraudulent ventures.
The investigation highlights the reach of the money laundering probe, involving a prominent figure from the Telugu film industry. Babu’s summons underscores the ED’s determination to unravel the complex financial dealings behind the alleged real estate scam. The actor’s legal team has yet to release a statement.
**Separate Article: India Celebrates 50 Years Since Launch of First Satellite, Aryabhata**
**Bengaluru, India** – India is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the launch of Aryabhata, its first indigenously built satellite. Launched on April 19, 1975, from the Soviet Union’s Kapustin Yar cosmodrome, Aryabhata marked a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey.
The project, a collaboration with the USSR under the Interkosmos program, overcame numerous challenges, including US sanctions following India’s first nuclear test. The satellite, designed and built by a 200-member team led by U.R. Rao, was a testament to India’s burgeoning technological capabilities. Despite a power failure that hampered some scientific experiments, Aryabhata successfully transmitted voice and ECG signals, showcasing the potential of satellite communication.
The satellite’s creation involved the establishment of crucial infrastructure in Bengaluru, including clean rooms and testing facilities. The project’s success laid the foundation for India’s thriving space program, which today boasts 51 satellites currently in orbit. Aryabhata’s legacy continues to inspire India’s ongoing advancements in space technology.
First Piper 