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**Manchu Vishnu’s Dream Project ‘Kannappa’ Finally Set for Release After Decade in the Making**
**KAKINADA:** Manchu Vishnu’s ambitious project, “Kannappa,” is finally hitting theaters on June 27th, after nearly a decade in development. The film, conceived in 2014, has undergone extensive promotion across India, with grand events and engaging trailers building anticipation.
The film’s journey began with veteran actor and director Tanikella Bharani, who initially envisioned a low-budget, rustic take on the story. However, after Manchu Vishnu acquired the rights, the project was reimagined as a large-scale pan-Indian epic. Vishnu collaborated with prominent writers to develop the script, even scouting locations in Poland in 2018. The film draws inspiration from the legend of Bhakta Kannappa, as depicted in Dhurjati’s “Sri Kalahasteeswara Mahatyam.”
Regular shooting commenced in September 2023, primarily in New Zealand. The title was officially announced in November of the same year. The film is directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, known for the “Mahabharat” series, and produced by Mohan Babu’s 24 Frames Factory.
The first look was revealed on Maha Shivaratri 2024, followed by the release of a “Kannappa” comic book on Mohan Babu’s birthday. A steady stream of updates has since kept the buzz alive.
The teaser was launched at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, with the official trailer dropping on June 14th. “Kannappa” features three generations of the Manchu family: Vishnu as Kannappa, Mohan Babu as Mahadeva Shastri, and Vishnu’s son Avram as young Thinnadu. Vishnu’s daughters, Ariana and Viviana, not only act in the film but also sing the “Sri Kalahasti Gatha” song.
The film boasts a star-studded cast, including pan-Indian stars Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Akshay Kumar, along with Sarath Kumar and Kajal Aggarwal. Brahmanandam, Saptagiri, Raghu Babu, Shiva Balaji, and Kaushal round out the supporting cast.
The film received a U/A certificate from the censor board with 12 cuts, reducing its runtime from 195 minutes to 182 minutes (3 hours and 2 minutes).
Sources estimate the film’s budget between ₹200-250 crore. Vishnu stated in an interview that Prabhas and Mohanlal acted in the film without taking any remuneration. “Kannappa” is set to release on approximately 5,000 screens worldwide.
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