Stunning First Look Reveals Akshaye Khanna as the Formidable Asura Guru in the Next Chapter of the PVCU; Puja Kolluru Directs Epic Mythology
Director Prasanth Varma today dropped the first look of veteran Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna in his upcoming mythological superhero epic, ‘Mahakali,’ immediately setting the internet ablaze. Khanna will embody the powerful and enigmatic character of Asuraguru Shukracharya, the formidable guru and master strategist of the Asuras (demons).
The stunning reveal confirms the immense scale of Varma’s ambitious shared universe, the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (#PVCU), which began with the blockbuster Hanu-Man. Mahakali, the first female-led superhero film in the PVCU, is written, conceptualised, and created by Varma, and will be directed by Puja Kolluru. RKD Studios, with R K Duggal and Riwaz Duggal producing, is backing the pan-India project.
Akshaye Khanna’s transformation into Shukracharya is nothing short of breathtaking. The poster features a striking, almost unrecognisable Khanna, radiating a duality of meditative wisdom and indomitable power. He sports a flowing silver beard and long grey locks, ascetic robes, and luminous eyes that command attention. The visual evokes the legendary essence of Shukracharya, the revered guru in Hindu mythology, standing before a colossal mountain fortress under a storm-laden sky.
Varma, who will act as the showrunner for the film, shared the poster with the electrifying caption: “In the shadows of gods, rose the brightest flame of rebellion 🔥 Presenting The Enigmatic #AkshayeKhanna as the eternal ‘Asuraguru SHUKRACHARYA’ from #Mahakali 🔱❤️🔥.”
The Asuraguru is known as the master of Sanatana Vidya and the keeper of the secretive Mrita-Sanjivani Mantra, the power to restore life. Khanna’s intense look perfectly channels the character’s dual nature: the spiritual guide and the shrewd strategist capable of altering cosmic balance.
Mahakali marks Akshaye Khanna’s highly anticipated debut in Telugu cinema. Known for his versatility and intense performances in Hindi cinema, his menacing and powerful look ensures his foray into the Southern industry is unique and unforgettable. Industry experts believe his casting adds a significant layer of gravitas and pan-Indian appeal to the already expansive PVCU. Khanna’s role is suggested to span across multiple films in the franchise, promising to add intrigue and depth to the growing universe.
The inclusion of Shukracharya solidifies the narrative depth of the #PVCU. Launched successfully with Hanu-Man, the cinematic universe is dedicated to creating homegrown Indian superheroes rooted in the nation’s rich history, mythology, and culture.
Mahakali stands as the next major chapter in this ambitious project. It is touted to be the first Indian superhero film with a female lead, inspired by the fierce Goddess Kali. The director, Puja Kolluru, expressed her excitement over the opportunity, confirming Varma’s commitment to delivering a powerful and socially relevant story that breaks stereotypes.
Prasanth Varma, following the massive success of Hanu-Man, continues to push cinematic boundaries. His conceptualisation for Mahakali promises a blend of the spiritual and the mythical with a contemporary perspective.
Puja Kolluru, who directs the film, brings her unique expertise to the superhero genre. The film is produced by RKD Studios and presented by R K Duggal and Riwaz Duggal, who are setting the stage for a cinematic spectacle awaited by fans across the country. As the Mahakali team moves ahead, the first look of Akshaye Khanna as Shukracharya confirms that the PVCU is preparing for a dark and formidable new era.
