Kannada actor Upendra, who was offered a part in actor Mahesh Babu's new film to be directed by Anil Ravipudi, has politely declined to come on board. The actor, who has taken the political plunge, is planning to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and has decided to not sign a film until the end of elections.

"Upendra was offered the antagonist's role in Mahesh's film, but he turned down the proposal owing to his political commitments. He wants to put his acting career on hold to focus on politics and is preparing to contest in the upcoming elections as part of his Prajaakeeya party," says a source.

Upendra's decision comes a few days after actor Sai Pallavi too rejected a role in the Mahesh-starrer because she didn't like the role. The team then zeroed in on Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead. It is also learnt that actor Vijayashanti was also approached for a crucial role, but she is yet to give her nod for the project. To be produced by Anil Sunkara, the untitled film will start rolling in June.