The ever-expanding Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) has just made its boldest casting move yet—Akshaye Khanna has officially joined Mahakali, marking his much-awaited Telugu debut. Following his acclaimed performance in Dhurandhar, the versatile actor is set to portray Shukracharya, the powerful and enigmatic guru of the asuras, bringing a never-seen-before intensity to the mythological universe introduced in Hanu-Man.
The first-look poster instantly grabbed attention, showcasing Khanna in a fierce ascetic avatar—white hair flowing, eyes blazing with ancient wisdom, and a backdrop engulfed in flames and symbolic motifs. The visual tone telegraphs grandeur, mysticism, and raw power, perfectly aligning with the dark, divine energy that the character of Shukracharya embodies. Fans have already flooded social media with praise, calling the casting “inspired,” “unexpected,” and “game-changing.”
Conceived, written, and created by Prasanth Varma, Mahakali continues the ambitious world-building that catapulted Hanu-Man into a nationwide sensation. While Varma remains the creative brain behind the project, the film is directed by Puja Kolluru, whose narrative flair and visual style promise to elevate this chapter of the PVCU even further. Backed by RKD Studios, with producers RK Duggal and Riwaz Duggal, the production aims for epic scale across story, visuals, and character arcs.
As the mythological canvas widens, the inclusion of Shukracharya hints at deeper cosmic conflicts and lore-driven storytelling within the PVCU. Akshaye Khanna’s impeccable command over nuanced, layered roles makes him a thrilling choice for a character rooted in complexity, intellect, and mythic might. His debut in Telugu cinema adds another dimension to his already diverse filmography—and fans are eagerly anticipating the dynamism he will bring to this universe.
Mahakali is set for a multi-language release, including Hindi, ensuring that the saga reaches audiences across India and beyond. With excitement rapidly building and Khanna's transformation universally praised, the film is well on its way to becoming one of the most awaited mythological epics of the year.