The buzz surrounding Kannappa, the ambitious Telugu-language mythological drama, has reached a fever pitch as its release date approaches. This pan-Indian film, starring Vishnu Manchu, promises to deliver a visually stunning retelling of the legendary tale of Bhakta Kannappa, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. Recent updates confirm that Kannappa will hit theaters on June 27, 2025, after a delay from its original April 25 schedule to perfect its intricate visual effects. With a star-studded cast, including Mohanlal, Prabhas, and Akshay Kumar, the film is poised to be one of Tollywood’s most significant releases this year. Fans are eagerly awaiting a cinematic experience that blends devotion, action, and groundbreaking visuals.
The Star Power Behind Kannappa
The cast of Kannappa reads like a who’s who of Indian cinema. Vishnu Manchu takes on the titular role of Thinnadu, a fearless warrior who transforms into a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. Mohanlal, celebrated on his 65th birthday with a special character glimpse, plays Kirata, a pivotal figure wielding the Pashupatastra. Prabhas, known for his commanding screen presence, appears as Rudra, the Divine Guardian, with a 30-minute extended cameo that includes a fiery conversation scene with Mohan Babu. Akshay Kumar marks his Telugu debut as Lord Shiva, while Kajal Aggarwal portrays Goddess Parvati. Supporting roles by Sarath Kumar, Brahmanandam, and Preity Mukhundhan add depth to this ensemble.
The film’s production values are equally impressive. Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, Kannappa features music by Stephen Devassy and Mani Sharma, promising a score that enhances its epic narrative. Shot in New Zealand and produced by 24 Frames Factory and Ava Entertainment, the movie is one of Tollywood’s costliest projects, with a 12-minute war sequence touted as a visual spectacle.
Recent Developments and Hype
The Kannappa team has been proactive in building anticipation. In May 2025, new posters featuring Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva were unveiled, sparking excitement across social media. Prabhas completed his dubbing last month, and Vishnu Manchu recently confirmed the actor’s significant role, which is expected to boost opening numbers. The film’s trailer is set to launch on April 5, 2025, at a grand event in Dubai, with speculation that stars like Prabhas and Mohanlal may attend. Earlier this year, the team met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to promote the film, gifting him a glass painting and discussing its cultural significance.
The delay from April to June allowed the team to refine a crucial VFX-heavy sequence, ensuring a polished final product. Vishnu Manchu apologized to fans for the wait, emphasizing the team’s commitment to delivering a cinematic masterpiece. The film will be released in six languages—Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and English—broadening its appeal across India and beyond.
The Story of Kannappa: Devotion and Sacrifice
Kannappa tells the timeless story of Bhakta Kannappa, an atheist hunter who becomes one of Lord Shiva’s most ardent devotees. Rooted in the lore of the Srikalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh, the narrative explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and transformation. Vishnu Manchu has shared his personal connection to the story, visiting Jyotirlingas across India to deepen his spiritual bond with the project. The film’s teaser, released in March 2025, showcased intense action, powerful dialogues, and a glimpse of its divine characters, setting the stage for an emotional and visually rich experience.
| Key Cast and Roles | Description |
|---|---|
| Vishnu Manchu | Thinnadu, a warrior turned devotee |
| Mohanlal | Kirata, master of Pashupatastra |
| Prabhas | Rudra, the Divine Guardian |
| Akshay Kumar | Lord Shiva, a divine figure |
| Kajal Aggarwal | Goddess Parvati |
Challenges and Controversies
The road to Kannappa’s release hasn’t been without hurdles. In March 2025, actor Raghu Babu stirred controversy by warning that trolls criticizing the film would face “Lord Shiva’s curse,” prompting online mockery. The team also debunked rumors of a special preview for industry bigwigs, clarifying that no full screening had occurred. Despite these hiccups, the film’s strategic global promotions, launched well in advance, have kept it in the spotlight. Vishnu Manchu revealed that Prabhas and Mohanlal worked without fees, driven by respect for his father, Mohan Babu, adding a heartfelt dimension to the project.
Why Kannappa Is a Must-Watch
As June 27 approaches, Kannappa stands out for its blend of mythology, star power, and technical prowess. The film’s early promotional efforts, including character reveals and a Mumbai teaser launch, have built a loyal fanbase. Its pan-Indian release strategy ensures accessibility to diverse audiences, while its focus on devotion resonates universally. With a runtime featuring key moments like Mohanlal’s 15-minute cameo and Prabhas’ intense scenes, the film promises both emotional depth and cinematic grandeur. For fans of Indian mythology and high-octane dramas, Kannappa is shaping up to be an unmissable event.
Join the Kannappa Journey
Don’t miss the chance to witness Kannappa in theaters on June 27, 2025! Share your excitement in the comments, and let us know which star you’re most eager to see. Stay tuned for the trailer launch in Dubai, and book your tickets early for this mythological spectacle.