The countdown has begun for the release of Kannappa, the highly anticipated mythological drama headlined by Vishnu Manchu. With a star-studded cast and a sprawling scale, the film has already generated massive hype—but it’s the latest review from superstar Rajinikanth that has taken anticipation to new heights.
On June 15, veteran actor and producer Mohan Babu revealed via social media that Rajinikanth—his long-time friend—watched Kannappa in a private screening with his family. The screening coincided with the 30th anniversary of Pedarayudu, a film that starred both Rajinikanth and Mohan Babu. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Mohan Babu shared a few nostalgic photos with Rajinikanth and wrote:
“On June 15, Pedarayudu completed 30 glorious years. On the same day, my best friend @rajinikanth watched Kannappa with his family. The love, warmth, and encouragement he gave after the film is something I will never forget. Thank you, Mitrama.”
His son, Vishnu Manchu—who plays the titular role in Kannappa—also shared his emotional moment with the superstar. “Last night, @rajinikanth uncle watched Kannappa. After the film, he gave me a tight hug and told me that he loved it,” Vishnu wrote on social media. “I’ve been waiting 22 years as an actor for that hug. Today, I feel encouraged, humbled, and grateful.”
The film is slated for a pan-Indian theatrical release on June 27, 2025, and is directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh. Mounted on a grand budget under the banners of 24 Frames Factory and AVA Entertainment, Kannappa boasts a formidable ensemble including Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, Mohan Babu, Prabhas, Kajal Aggarwal, Sarathkumar, Preity Mukudhan, and Madhubala.
To drum up momentum ahead of release, the team has planned a large-scale pre-release event in Hyderabad on June 21. While the venue and chief guest details are under wraps, sources suggest a major industry turnout is expected.
Adding to the wave of endorsements, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar—who essays the role of Lord Shiva in the film—spoke glowingly of Vishnu Manchu’s dedication. At a recent promotional event, Akshay said:
“I’ve seen Vishnu in action—not just as the lead actor, but as someone completely immersed in the soul of the film. He was acting, coordinating things on set, even helping with props when needed. At times, it felt like he was the art director.”
He continued with a personal anecdote from the set:
“There was one scene, maybe six or seven minutes long, and Vishnu spent nearly two hours explaining it to me. I understood it in the first few minutes, but he kept going—that’s how passionate he is. You rarely see an actor give so much of himself to a role. He’s truly lived and breathed Kannappa.”
The mythological tale, rooted in the legend of the Shaivite devotee Kannappa, promises to blend deep spirituality with cinematic spectacle. With glowing early reactions from names like Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar, Kannappa is shaping up to be one of the year’s most talked-about releases.