Kannappa is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Telugu films following the recent success of Kuberaa. The historical drama is not only notable for its grand scale and big names but also for a rare cinematic occurrence — three generations of the Mohan Babu family will be appearing in key roles. Spearheaded by Vishnu Manchu, who is both the lead actor and the producer, the film boasts a star-studded cast, including South Indian superstars Prabhas and Mohanlal, as well as Bollywood’s Akshay Kumar, who takes on the divine role of Lord Shiva.
Scheduled for release on June 27, 2025, Kannappa is a big-budget production that carries significant emotional and cinematic weight. One of the most remarkable elements of the film is its inclusion of multiple generations from a single film family — a rarity in Indian cinema. Leading the charge is Manchu Mohan Babu, a legendary actor in Telugu film history, who plays a powerful and pivotal priest in the story. His son, Vishnu Manchu, is cast in the title role of Kannappa, the central character around whom the film revolves.
The next generation of the Mohan Babu family is also making a splash in this project. Vishnu Manchu’s twin daughters, Ariana and Viviana, have lent their voices to a song in the film and will also make brief on-screen appearances in cameo roles. In addition, Vishnu’s young son, Avram Manchu, will portray the childhood version of Kannappa, allowing the audience to witness the character’s journey from a young age. Rounding out the familial presence is Vishnu’s daughter, Arya Vidya, who is also set to make a special appearance.
This multi-generational involvement adds a unique layer of intimacy and depth to the film. In an interview, Vishnu Manchu discussed his decision to bring his family into the project, highlighting that the narrative provided a natural opportunity to include them. “Kannappa had a good scope to include three generations of my family in the film, and I did not think twice before making everyone act in the movie,” he stated.
Such a combination of three generations in one film is highly unusual and marks a rare moment in Indian cinema. The last time something similar occurred in Telugu films was with the critically acclaimed and commercially successful Manam. That film starred three generations of the Akkineni family — the iconic Akkineni Nageswara Rao, his son Nagarjuna, and grandson Naga Chaitanya — all of whom played significant roles. Manam was widely celebrated not just for its emotional storytelling but also for bringing together a lineage of talent in a meaningful way.
Kannappa aims to replicate that magic while carving out its own legacy. With a production budget exceeding ₹150 crore, the film is being crafted on an epic scale. Apart from the central family members, the cast features a host of prominent names from Indian cinema. Mukesh Rishi, known for his strong screen presence, will be seen in a key supporting role. Veteran actors Sarath Kumar and Madhoo bring their years of experience to the ensemble, while popular actress Kajal Aggarwal adds star value. Comedian Brahmanandam, a beloved figure in Telugu cinema, will also feature, likely providing some comic relief in this otherwise intense narrative.
The music, an essential component of any Indian film, is composed by Stephen Devassy, who has crafted the film’s score to match the grandeur of the storyline. The runtime has been finalized at 182 minutes, suggesting an expansive and layered narrative that takes its time in unfolding.
Kannappa, both as a cinematic offering and as a family collaboration, is clearly a labor of love for Vishnu Manchu. The film tells the story of a legendary devotee of Lord Shiva, and the actor-producer appears to have invested not just money but heart into every frame. With its spiritual overtones, historical setting, and mythological depth, the film is expected to strike a chord with audiences across generations.
Adding to its wide appeal is the strategic casting of actors from across India. Akshay Kumar, playing the role of Lord Shiva, brings a pan-Indian appeal and is likely to draw in North Indian audiences. Meanwhile, the presence of Malayalam superstar Mohanlal and Telugu icon Prabhas ensures that the film commands attention in the South. The multilingual cast serves as a strong signal that Kannappa is being positioned not just as a regional release, but as a film with national, and potentially international, ambitions.
While much of the film’s plot remains under wraps, the combination of historical fiction, devotional elements, and family drama is expected to be a compelling mix. The personal investment of the Manchu family, combined with the rich storytelling tradition of Telugu cinema, sets the stage for a film that is as much a cultural event as it is a movie.
Kannappa is more than just a big-budget Telugu film. It is a project that brings together generations of cinematic legacy, star power from various industries, and a deeply rooted mythological tale. With the emotional draw of a family acting together and the production values to support its grand vision, Kannappa is gearing up to be one of the landmark films of 2025. As the release date draws closer, expectations continue to rise for what promises to be a film rich in both substance and spectacle.