After the success of Hanu-Man (2024), filmmaker Prasanth Varma is expanding his mythology-inspired cinematic universe with Mahakali. The makers, RKD Studios, dropped a post reading, “24th August - The End Begins”, hinting at the first glimpse of Akshaye Khanna as the sage Shukracharya. The makers also released a production still of Khanna in character.
Seen in a heavy-duty getup, the Dhurandhar actor stands out as the revered guru of the Asuras. Shukracharya is a figure associated with power, knowledge and complexity in Indian myth. Khanna’s portrayal is expected to bring intensity and gravitas to the role, the makers said, while Varma’s approach promises to place the character within the expansive world of his universe.
Mahakali follows up Hanu-Man, which established the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) with its blend of Indian mythology and large-scale spectacle. The August 24 reveal is expected to provide the first substantial glimpse into the film’s visual language and Khanna’s transformation.
The film is created by Prasanth Varma and directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru. The team wrapped a 100-day shooting schedule earlier this year, followed by a final 40-day schedule in Hyderabad. Presented by RK Duggal and produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal under the RKD Studios banner, Mahakali also stars Bhoomi Shetty, Rohit Saraf and other actors.
The music of Mahakali is by Smaran Sai, the cinematography is by Suresh Ragutu, and the production design by Sri Nagendra Tangala.
Meanwhile, Varma, known for the popular Telugu film HanuMan (2024), will return with another mythological film, centred around the Hindu god. The film is Jai Hanuman, starring Rishab Shetty. Varma has expressed that it has been a dream project for him. “The film is not just about the undying spirit of devotion and courage that Lord Hanuman embodies, but also a reminder that strength guided by faith can move mountains," he has said about the film.