Mumbai: The ensemble for Mukesh Kumar Singh’s forthcoming film “Kannappa”, starring Vishnu Manchu, continues to grow. Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has been confirmed as the latest addition to this fantasy drama rooted in mythology, revolving around the devoted Kannappa’s relationship with Lord Shiva. This venture will serve as Akshay Kumar’s debut in the Telugu film industry, popularly known as Tollywood.
Akshay Kumar Joins the Cast
Industry analyst Ramesh Bala took to X to announce Akshay’s inclusion in the film. He stated, “Bollywood Superstar @akshaykumar joins the cast of Prestigious Pan-India Biggie – Actor @iVishnuManchu’s Big Budget movie #Kannappa. After #Prabhas, @Mohanlal, @PDdancing and @realsarathkumar – @akshaykumar is one more grand addition to the movie’s cast..Stay tuned for more exciting updates..(sic)”
Akshay Kumar has previously appeared in a bilingual film titled “Ashaant” in 1993, which was released in Kannada as “Vishnu Vijaya”. This marked his first venture into the South Indian film industry. His second South Indian project was the 2018 Tamil blockbuster “2.0”, directed by Shankar and starring Rajinikanth. “Kannappa” will be his third venture in the South Indian cinema landscape.
Star-Studded Cast of Kannappa
“Kannappa” boasts an impressive ensemble of stars hailing from different film industries. Alongside Vishnu Manchu and his father, the veteran actor Mohan Babu, the film features Prabhas, Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar, Madhoo, Sarathkumar, Prabhu Deva, Brahmanandam, Mukesh Rishi, Kaushal Manda, among others. The film’s music will be composed by Stephen Devassy and Mani Sharma. Sheldon Chau will handle the cinematography, while Anthony will be responsible for editing.
About Kannappa
“Kannappa” is a passion project for Vishnu Manchu, with Mohan Babu producing it under the banners of AVA Entertainment and 24 Frames Factory. Vishnu has penned the screenplay for the film, which is based on a story crafted by Paruchuri Gopala Krishna, Eshwar Reddy, G Nageswara Reddy, and Thota Prasad. While the film is primarily shot in Telugu, it will be dubbed into other South Indian languages as well as Hindi.
Initially, Kajal Aggarwal was set to play the female lead, followed by Nupur Sanon. However, both actresses stepped down due to various reasons, leading to Preity Mukhundhan’s casting. The film has already been shot in scenic locations in New Zealand and Hyderabad.
