The much-awaited glimpse of Mahakali, the upcoming mythological action-adventure from the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU), has finally heightened anticipation around the ambitious project. Starring Bhoomi Shetty, Akshaye Khanna and Sriya Reddy, the film is scheduled to hit theatres on January 8, 2027.
The makers have unveiled a nearly three-minute glimpse that offers audiences a first look at the film’s larger-than-life world and its powerful characters.
Akshaye Khanna's Shukracharya declares war
One of the biggest highlights of the glimpse is Akshaye Khanna as Shukracharya, the legendary Guru of the Asuras.
The actor’s character is shown breaking free from his restraints before unleashing his formidable power. In a dramatic turn, Shukracharya declares war against humanity, setting up what appears to be a major conflict at the heart of the story.
Akshaye’s intense portrayal has already emerged as one of the major talking points surrounding the film.
Sriya Reddy’s Goddess Kali and the child
The glimpse also introduces a mysterious emotional thread involving a child. A woman is seen leaving a baby in the care of a Goddess Kali idol.
Goddess Kali subsequently manifests in human form and takes the child into her arms. As the danger surrounding them grows, she appears ready to confront the looming threat.
Bhoomi Shetty plays the titular character and leads the female-centric superhero story, while Sriya Reddy is also associated with the portrayal of Goddess Kali in the film’s promotional material.
A mythological story with contemporary themes
Directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, Mahakali marks her directorial debut. The film is created by filmmaker Prasanth Varma as part of his expanding cinematic universe.
While rooted in mythology, the movie is expected to explore contemporary themes including identity, discrimination and society’s attitudes towards darker skin.
The makers are attempting to give the revered Goddess Kali a fresh interpretation, combining mythology with superhero elements, action and a contemporary emotional narrative.
Rohit Saraf makes Telugu debut
The film also marks Rohit Saraf's Telugu debut. He is part of an ensemble cast that includes Khushbu Sundar, Samuthirakani, Rakesh Bedi, Rajat Kapoor, Nassar, Murali Sharma and Prudhviraj, among others.
The project is produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal under RKD Studios, with Smaran Sai composing the music.
When will Mahakali release?
Mahakali is scheduled to arrive in theatres on January 8, 2027. The film is being positioned as a major mythological action spectacle and an important addition to the PVCU.
The movie has also reportedly secured Netflix as its OTT partner, although the streaming date has not yet been announced. The digital premiere is expected to follow its theatrical run.
With Akshaye Khanna’s striking transformation as Shukracharya, Bhoomi Shetty’s central role and the film’s larger mythological canvas, Mahakali is already shaping up as one of the more anticipated Telugu releases of 2027.