Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, Kannappa is an ambitious mythological epic starring Vishnu Manchu in the titular role, Mohanlal, and Prabhas in pivotal roles and Akshay Kunar as Lord Shiva. The film, set to release April 2025, promises to be a grand cinematic spectacle. Kannappa aims to take audiences on a visual and emotional journey, blending traditional storytelling with modern filmmaking techniques.
A special media event was held in Mumbai today for Kannappa, the epic film based on the legendary tale of Kannappa. Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, actor-producer Vishnu Manchu, director Mukesh Kumar Singh, and other key cast and crew members gathered to celebrate the film.
Akshay Kumar shared his excitement about stepping into the role of Lord Shiva: “At first, I wasn’t sure, but Vishnu’s unwavering belief that I was the right person to bring Lord Shiva to life on the big screen in Indian cinema truly convinced me. The story is powerful, deeply moving, and the film has turned out to be a visual masterpiece. I’m honored to be a part of this incredible journey.”
Akshay Kumar, who is all set to make his grand Telugu debut with Kannappa, shared an emotional connection to his role as Lord Shiva. At the film’s incredible event today, the actor revealed how life has come full circle for him, as his father, had once portrayed Lord Shiva in a film decades ago.
Recalling the fascinating anecdote, Akshay said: “When my father was transferred to Mumbai, we used to visit film shoots and enjoy watching them. This was around 1970. One day, while he was observing a shoot, a man approached him and asked if he would like to act. He was surprised but agreed. My father was 6 feet 1 inch tall, a wrestler, and had served in the army. To his amazement, they dressed him in Lord Shiva’s costume, and he ended up portraying Shiv Ji. Though it was just a brief role of 5-10 seconds, he played Lord Shiva. Today, I feel incredibly fortunate that I, his son, have been given the same role.”
Vishnu Manchu, who portrays the titular character, Kannappa, expressed his personal connection to the film. “This film is not just a project for me; it’s a personal journey. I am currently visiting all the Jyotirlingas across India, I’ve felt a deep, spiritual bond with the story of Kannappa. It’s a tale of unwavering faith and sacrifice that touches the soul. Having icons like Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, and Prabhas join us on this journey gives me immense pride, because we believe this story, filled with devotion and divine power, should reach every person across the world. It’s a message that transcends borders and speaks to the heart of humanity.”
Speaking about Akshay Kumar’s role in the film, Vishnu Manchu expressed his admiration, stating, “For this generation, anybody who thinks of Lord Shiva, I hope, and I am confident that Mr. Akshay Kumar’s picture will come into our minds. That is the level of devotion with which we have made this movie, and that’s exactly what he has portrayed.”
Director Mukesh Kumar Singh spoke about his experience working with the legendary cast. “Directing stalwarts like Akshay, Mohanlal, and Prabhas was a wonderful experience. They are all extremely collaborative, bringing a lot of energy to their roles. Vishnu’s passion for this film has been infectious, and we are committed to ensuring this incredible story reaches people everywhere,” he said.
Keep it locked on BollySpice because we will bring you the highly anticipated teaser as soon as it drops on March 1st!
Kannappa, which will be released in Telugu and dubbed versions of Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, and English, promises to be one of the most anticipated films of 2025. The film will be released in theatres worldwide on April 25, 2025.
