Introducing Akshaye Khanna As Shukracharya from MAHAKALI

The pan-India blockbuster HanuMan marks the first film in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). The next installment in the universe is MAHAKALI, produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal of RKD Studios and presented by RK Duggal. Prasanth Varma serves as the creator and showrunner, while Puja Aparna Kolluru directs the film.

Bollywood star Akshaye Khanna, who stunned audiences with his menacing portrayal of Aurangzeb in the blockbuster Chhava, plays a pivotal role in MAHAKALI. The film marks his debut in Telugu cinema. Despite being flooded with offers following the success of Chhava, Akshaye chose MAHAKALI for his Telugu launch, drawn by the strength of the story and the depth of his character.

Introducing Akshaye’s character, his first look from the movie is unveiled. The striking visual captures Shukracharya, the revered guru of the Asuras in Hindu mythology, standing in front of a colossal mountain fortress, enclosed by towering rock cliffs that rise like guardians of a forbidden secret. The storm-laden sky looms above as tongues of fire flicker from ancient altars, casting an austere glow upon the sage.

With his flowing silver beard, ascetic robes, and luminous eyes that pierce the darkness, the image evokes the formidable presence of a mystic whose wisdom shaped the destiny of gods and demons alike. The chiaroscuro play of light and shadow renders him both ascetic and awe-inspiring—a figure suspended between the mortal world and the eternal. Shukracharya is presented not merely as a figure of the past, but as a living symbol of wisdom, defiance, and eternal cosmic authority.

Known as the master of Sanatana Vidya and the keeper of the secretive Mrita-Sanjivani mantra—the power to restore life—Shukracharya is celebrated as both a spiritual guide and the indomitable strategist of the Asuras.

The film boasts a talented team of technicians across various departments. Smaran Sai composes the music, while Suresh Ragutu handles cinematography. Sri Nagendra Tangala serves as the production designer, and Venkat Kumar Jetty takes on the role of executive producer.

MAHAKALI is progressing rapidly with its shoot. With more than 50 percent shoot done the production work is expected to be completed by December, with post-production activities also underway simultaneously. The makers will announce the release date soon.