Kannappa, an ambitious mythological drama directed and produced by actor Vishnu Manchu, opened in theatres today, June 27. The film, which stars Akshay Kumar, Prabhas, Mohanlal, Kajal Aggarwal, and Vishnu himself, has already garnered a lot of praise for its compelling story. Amid significant buzz around the film, the actor responded to questions regarding the OTT run following its theatrical debut. During a pre-release event, Vishnu Manchu made it clear that the picture will not be released on streaming platforms right away.
Vishnu stated that the picture’s OTT rights had yet to be sold, a strategic decision aimed at allowing the film to have an extended theatrical run without the restraints of a streaming release deadline. Vishnu said, “I have a very large freedom; my movie will not come to OTT before 10 weeks. That is the deal I have, and by God’s grace, I don’t have any release pressure. My only intention is to showcase the best to the audience,” as reported by India Today.
At a time when most big-budget Telugu films reach OTT platforms within three to four weeks of release, this move is risky. But as per the report, Vishnu is still certain that Kannappa deserves a long theatrical run and has stuck to his plan. Moreover, the Andhra Pradesh government has allowed a Rs 50 increase in ordinary ticket prices for the film’s theatrical release.
As the early reviews for the film poured in, Vishnu took to his X account and shared a heartfelt note with his fans. Alongside a poster of Kannappa, the actor-producer wrote, “This moment… I’ve waited for it my entire life. Hearing the overwhelming love pouring in from overseas premieres and early morning shows in India fills my heart with gratitude. #Kannappa is no longer just my film—it’s yours now. #HarHarMahadev.”
This moment… I’ve waited for it my entire life.Hearing the overwhelming love pouring in from overseas premieres and early morning shows in India fills my heart with gratitude.?#Kannappa is no longer just my film—it’s yours now.?❤️ #HarHarMahadev pic.twitter.com/BUOZA3tgOQ
— Vishnu Manchu (@iVishnuManchu) June 27, 2025
The film boasts of an impressive cast and a significant cameo. Vishnu Machu plays a valiant warrior who changes into Lord Shiva’s loyal servant, Bhaktha Kannappa. Akshay Kumar plays Lord Shiva, Prabhas is seen as Rudra, while Mohanlal gives a beautiful performance as Kirata. Twenty-Four Frames Factory and AVA Entertainment have produced the film. Kannappa, which has been released in five languages- Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi), promises to be a visually stunning, emotionally powerful movie experience based on devotion and mythology.