Anirudh Ravichander is in talks to compose the music for Sukumar’s next film with Ram Charan, tentatively titled RC17 — a move that could mark the end of a two-decade-long musical partnership between the director and Devi Sri Prasad. The news, first reported by Mirchi9 and expanded upon by Track Tollywood, comes amid growing speculation about creative friction during the making of Pushpa 2: The Rule. That film saw DSP sidelined on the background score, with Sam CS brought in for last-minute revisions. DSP also made pointed remarks at a promotional event in Chennai, questioning producers’ involvement, a moment that underscored tensions within the team. Now, as RC17 prepares to go on floors, sources say Sukumar has opted for Anirudh, a name already linked to high-profile Telugu projects like Devara and Nani’s The Paradise. It would be the first time Sukumar has worked without DSP since Arya (2004). The duo’s collaboration spanned hits like Rangasthalam, Nannaku Prematho, and both parts of Pushpa, earning DSP a National Award for Best Music Direction. Replacing him isn’t just a casting shift. It’s a seismic moment for Telugu cinema. Anirudh brings star power, but his track record in Telugu films hasn’t matched his Tamil dominance. Can he match DSP’s emotional precision? Will Sukumar’s storytelling adapt to Anirudh’s rhythmic style? And how will scheduling work, Anirudh is juggling multiple projects, while Sukumar is known for long shoots and reshoots. The answers won’t come fast. But one thing’s certain: the soundtrack of RC17 won’t just be heard. It’ll be dissected. The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers along with Sukumar Writings and marks the reunion of Ram Charan and Sukumar after their 2018 blockbuster Rangasthalam. For DSP, losing Sukumar is a big blow. He called the director his most loyal collaborator, and their films together gave him some of the biggest hits of his career. How DSP responds in his upcoming projects will now be closely watched. If Anirudh comes on board, it will be one of the biggest music deals in Telugu cinema. The real question remains: can a new sound carry the weight of a legacy?