After 'Chhaava' Akshaye Khanna to make Telugu debut with Prasanth Varma's superhero film 'Mahakali'

Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna, who won over the audience with his menacing performance in Chhaava, is set to make his Telugu debut with 'Mahakali', the latest film to the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). The actor will reportedly play a key role in this action-fantasy film, marking his entry into the superhero genre.

As per a report by Hindustan Times, a source close to the production house revealed that his role will add more intrigue and depth to the superhero franchise created by 'HanuMan' director Prasanth Varma after he asked whether he will be seen in the shoes of positive or negative character.

The report quotes, "His role will span across multiple films in the franchise and will prove to be an exciting addition. We're hoping 'Mahakali' is received as well as 'HanuMan' was."

In pre-production stage
While the film is yet to go on floors, it further mentioned that Prasanth is being precise with whom he wants to cast for the leading roles as this will be his first female superhero flick that represents strength and challenges conventional beauty standards for the titular role. The makers are expected to make the official announcement soon.

About the film
'Mahakali', directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, is the first female superhero film in the PVCU and draws inspiration from Goddess Kali. The story is expected to blend Indian mythology with modern superhero elements, offering a fresh and culturally rich narrative. The film follows the massive success of 'HanuMan', based on Lord Hanuman, which kickstarted the PVCU last year.

A sequel titled 'Jai Hanuman' featuring Rishab Shetty is already in the works, making 'Mahakali' the third instalment in this ambitious cinematic universe.

The motion poster for 'Mahakali', released during Navratri last year, showed a powerful visual of a young girl bonding with a majestic tiger, symbolizing Goddess Durga's traditional vahan.