Akshaye Khanna, the versatile Bollywood actor known for his intense performances, is stepping into new territory with his Telugu film debut in Mahakali. This move comes at a time when his career is riding high on recent successes, but it's also shadowed by some off-screen drama. As part of Prasanth Varma's ambitious Cinematic Universe (PVCU), Mahakali promises a blend of mythology and superhero elements, drawing fans from across Indian cinema.

Entering the PVCU World

Prasanth Varma, the visionary behind hits like Hanu-Man, is expanding his PVCU with Mahakali, a film that positions itself as Tollywood's first female-led superhero saga. Directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, the movie features Bhoomi Shetty in the titular role as Maha, a powerful embodiment of the goddess Kali. Khanna's entry into this universe marks a significant crossover, bringing his Bollywood gravitas to Telugu audiences. The film, still in production, has already generated buzz with its teaser, hinting at epic battles and mystical themes.

Khanna's decision to join Mahakali reflects his willingness to explore diverse roles beyond Hindi cinema. After a string of acclaimed performances, this debut feels like a natural progression, allowing him to tap into the rich storytelling traditions of South Indian films.

The Enigmatic Shukracharya Role

In Mahakali, Khanna takes on the role of Shukracharya, the legendary guru of the asuras (demons) from Hindu mythology. Known for his wisdom, mystical powers, and complex moral compass, Shukracharya is a character that demands nuance—something Khanna excels at. Early reveals show him in a transformative look, blending ancient lore with modern cinematic flair.

This role aligns perfectly with Khanna's track record of portraying layered antagonists or mentors, as seen in his Bollywood outings. Fans are eager to see how he interprets this mythical figure, especially in a universe that reimagines Indian epics for contemporary viewers. With Bhoomi Shetty leading as the fierce Maha, the dynamic between their characters could be a highlight, pitting divine fury against demonic cunning.

BTS Selfie Ignites Fan Excitement

Adding to the hype, director Puja Kolluru recently shared a sunny behind-the-scenes selfie with Khanna from the Mahakali sets. The photo, posted on social media, captures a smiling Khanna, looking relaxed and enthusiastic amid the shoot. Kolluru captioned it as one of her 2025 highlights, expressing gratitude for working with the actor.

This glimpse has gone viral, with fans praising Khanna's approachable vibe. Coming right after his high-profile exit from another project, the selfie serves as a positive pivot, shifting focus to his new venture and building anticipation for the film's release.

The Drishyam 3 Exit: A Fee Dispute and More

However, Khanna's Telugu leap hasn't been without controversy. He recently backed out of Drishyam 3, the much-awaited sequel where he reprised his role as IG Tarun Ahlawat. Reports suggest the exit stemmed from a revised fee demand of Rs 21 crore, buoyed by the box-office triumphs of Dhurandhar and Chhaava. The makers cited budget constraints, leading to a fallout.

Additional creative differences, like Khanna's suggestion to wear a wig for his character, reportedly didn't align with the team's vision. Director Abhishek Pathak addressed the issue, noting that lead actor Ajay Devgn left the handling to him. The incident has sparked debates in the industry about star fees and professional commitments, but Khanna seems unfazed, diving straight into Mahakali.

A Promising Horizon

As Mahakali progresses, Khanna's debut could open doors for more pan-Indian collaborations. With his proven talent and the PVCU's growing popularity, this film might just be his next big milestone. Amid the Drishyam 3 buzz, it's clear Khanna is focusing on fresh challenges, reminding us why he's a enduring force in Indian cinema. Fans can't wait to see Shukracharya come alive on screen—2026 looks set for some mythological magic.

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