By Vishnu Manchu Reveals ‘Kannappa’ as a Pan-India Epic with a ‘Lord of the Rings’ Vibe
Vishnu Manchu’s upcoming film Kannappa promises to deliver a spectacular cinematic experience rooted in traditional Indian storytelling. Inspired by the grandeur of The Lord of the Rings, the film is set to release on April 25, 2025, and boasts a stellar cast, including Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, Prabhas, and Kajal Aggarwal, under the direction of Mukesh Kumar Singh.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Vishnu revealed details about the ambitious project, which was filmed over 90 days in the pristine landscapes of New Zealand. He chose this location for its untouched natural beauty, enhancing the film’s mythological essence. A massive crew of 800, including local Maori community members, worked on the production, reflecting its grand scale.
The story follows Kannappa Nayannar, a devout follower of Lord Shiva, whose legendary act of offering his eyes to the deity has inspired Vishnu since childhood. Drawing from his admiration for the classic Bhakta Kannappa, Vishnu envisions presenting the tale with epic fantasy elements akin to The Lord of the Rings.
Vishnu also shared how the production was a significant learning experience, emphasizing their success in completing the film on schedule and within budget while identifying areas for improvement in future projects.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the acclaimed actors who joined the film, attributing their involvement to their respect for his father, Mohan Babu. The project also features pivotal performances by Sarathkumar and Prabhu Deva, whose contributions were instrumental in bringing Kannappa to life.
