Vishnu Manchu confirms December release for ‘Kannappa’

The actor hopes 'Kannappa' will be a major career breakthrough as it's his most expensive project ever.

Published Jul 18, 2024 | 2:18 PMUpdated Jul 18, 2024 | 2:29 PM

Kannappa to release in December

Vishnu Manchu’s highly anticipated pan-Indian film, Kannappa, will be released this December. The actor announced the news on X, ending the post with “Har Har Mahadev”, but did not specify the exact date.

The Kannappa teaser was launched in June. Filled with battle scenes, the teaser shows Vishnu Manchu in action-packed sequences and gives brief glimpses of Mohanlal, Prabhas, Akshay Kumar, and Kajal Aggarwal without any elaborate scenes.

Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu, the Kannappa teaser debuted at the Cannes Film Festival on 20 May 2024. The film also features Sarathkumar, Brahmanandam, Madhoo, Preity Mukundhan, Mukesh Rishi, and Tamannaah Bhatia, in key roles. Originally made in Telugu, it is dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada.

According to reports, Kannappa is described as a grand production that features stars from across the country, including Prabhas and Nayanthara.

The action entertainer is based on the true story of Vishnu Manchu as Bhakta Kannappa, an atheist and brave warrior, who later became a devoted follower of Lord Shiva.

Kannappa, a legendary figure in Telugu folklore, famously offered his eye to the deity. Saint Manickavasagar praised Kannappa Nayanar’s devotion in Thiruvasagam acknowledging that his devotion did not match Kannappa Nayanar’s.

Produced by AVA Entertainment and 24 Frames Factory, the film boasts a talented crew including Hollywood cinematographer Sheldon Chau, action director Kecha Khamphakdee, editor Anthony Gonsalvez, and dance maestro Prabhudheva. Stephen Devassy is the film’s music composer.

Kannappa has been a remarkable journey marked by dedication and passion. It transcends mere cinema, delving deep into the soul of a warrior. We are excited to unveil the enchantment of bringing this film to fruition,” read a statement from the makers.

The makers recently unveiled Sararthkumar’s look from the film, on the occasion of the actor’s birthday. The poster introduced the veteran actor as Nathanadhudu.

Big film for Vishnu Manchu

Meanwhile, the announcement of Kannappa’s December release has sparked concerns about Allu Arjun’s Pushpa: The Rule.

Recently, rumours have circulated about a rift between director Sukumar and actor Allu Arjun. Initially set to release on 15 August, Pushpa 2 was postponed to 6 December due to production issues. With Kannappa also set for December, it’s uncertain if Pushpa 2 will release as planned.

The Allu Arjun-starrer is expected to dominate screens in Telugu and Hindi-speaking states, potentially overshadowing Kannappa.

Vishnu Manchu hopes Kannappa will be a major career breakthrough as it’s his most expensive project, where he plays the lead, writes, and produces.

Competing with Pushpa: The Rule could jeopardise Kannappa’s box office success.

(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)

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