Thu Feb 13 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Manchu Vishnu’s ‘Kannappa’: A 7-Year Journey Culminating in a ₹140 Crore Spectacle
**Hyderabad, India** – Manchu Vishnu’s ambitious project, “Kannappa,” is set to hit theaters worldwide on April 25th as a summer blockbuster. The film, based on the Bhakta Kannappa story from the Sri Kalahastheeswara Mahatmya, has been seven years in the making, Vishnu revealed in a recent English media interview. The estimated budget for this epic undertaking is a staggering ₹140 crore.
The star-studded cast includes Akshay Kumar portraying Shiva, a role he initially declined twice before being persuaded. Vishnu reportedly convinced him by stating, “You are the Shiva of this generation.” Prabhas and Mohanlal, both appearing without accepting any remuneration out of respect for Mohan Babu (the film’s producer), play pivotal roles alongside Kajal Aggarwal as Parvati Devi and Shiva Rajkumar. Other notable actors such as R. Sarathkumar and Brahmanandam also feature in the film. Vishnu’s son, Avram, makes his acting debut in the movie. The music is composed by Stephen Devassy and Mani Sharma, while Mukesh Kumar Singh directs. Preity Mukundan plays the female lead.
Vishnu highlighted the collaborative spirit, particularly mentioning Prabhas’ contribution strengthened his belief in friendship. He shared an anecdote about Mohanlal’s reaction to the offer, revealing the legendary actor’s humility and humor. The film’s production involved overcoming numerous challenges, underscoring the dedication of the entire team.
First Piper 