As one of Telugu cinema’s most beloved romantic dramas, Ye Maaya Chesave is all set to return to theatres on July 18, 2025, marking 15 years since its original release. Directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, the film launched the acting careers of Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya and blossomed into a real-life romance between the lead pair. Naturally, anticipation for the re-release has stirred nostalgia among fans—and with it, speculation about a reunion between the former couple for promotional activities.
However, actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu has now categorically denied any such reunion. Speaking to the media, Samantha put an end to the rumours.
“No, I am not promoting Ye Maaya Chesave with anyone. In fact, I’m not promoting the film at all,” she stated, making it clear that her participation in the re-release is non-existent. Addressing the ongoing chatter, she added, “I don’t know where this talk is coming from. Maybe fans of the film want to see the lead pair together. But one can’t live one’s life through the audience’s lensing of life.”
While distancing herself from the promotional hype, Samantha expressed deep affection for the film that launched her into stardom.
“I really remember every single shot,” she said. “The first shot I did for that film was at the gate, with my character Jessie meeting Karthik (Naga Chaitanya) for the first time. I remember everything about it—every single detail.”
She also praised the director, Gautham Menon, for his clarity of vision – “It was fantastic working with Gautham Menon, who knew exactly what he wanted and how the character should come across.”
Samantha and Naga Chaitanya’s onscreen chemistry in Ye Maaya Chesave evolved into a real-life relationship. The duo dated for several years before marrying in 2017. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 2021. Since then, both have chosen separate personal paths. In a candid appearance on Koffee With Karan, Samantha had previously described their post-divorce equation as far from amicable, stating, “If you put us both in a room, you have to hide sharp objects? Yeah. As of now, yes.”
Naga Chaitanya has since moved on and is now married to actress Sobhita Dhulipala, with their wedding taking place in December 2024.
While fans may not get to witness a promotional reunion between the original leads, the re-release of Ye Maaya Chesave is still poised to evoke the same emotional intensity and cinematic magic that made it a timeless classic. Samantha, though absent from the spotlight this time, will always be remembered for her enchanting portrayal of Jessie—a role that not only launched her career but remains etched in the hearts of cinephiles.
As Ye Maaya Chesave prepares for its second theatrical innings, its legacy continues—this time, through the lens of cherished memories and cinematic nostalgia rather than personal reunions.