After the success of Hanu-Man, filmmaker Prasanth Varma is preparing to expand his cinematic universe with Mahakali. The makers, RKD Studios, have shared a cryptic post that reads, “24th August – The End Begins”. The announcement has led to speculation that the first glimpse of the film will introduce Akshaye Khanna in his role as Shukracharya.
Akshaye Khanna is expected to appear in a very different look for the film. The actor, who recently received attention for his performance in Dhurandhar, is reportedly almost unrecognisable as Shukracharya. His first look had already created interest among audiences because of the significant change in his appearance.
Shukracharya is traditionally known as the guru of the Asuras and is an important figure in Indian mythology. The character is associated with knowledge, power and a complex personality. Khanna’s portrayal is expected to bring a serious and intense approach to the role.
The upcoming glimpse is also expected to give audiences their first detailed look at the world of Mahakali. Since Hanu-Man, viewers have been interested in the direction of Prasanth Varma’s cinematic universe. The filmmaker gained attention for combining Indian mythology with a modern visual style and large scale storytelling in Hanu-Man.
24th August – THE END BEGINS!#Mahakali🔱 #PVCU@PrasanthVarma #AkshayeKhanna@PujaKolluru @sriyareddy #BhoomiShetty #RohitSaraf @khushsundar #RakeshBedi @samuthirakanip @jitin0804 #RajatKapoor #Nassar #MuraliSharma #Prudhviraj pic.twitter.com/DH9VcMJ52a
— RKD Studios (@RKDStudios) August 19, 2026
The August 24 reveal is expected to offer more information about the film’s characters, visual style and overall setting. It will also give audiences a closer look at Khanna’s transformation into Shukracharya.
Mahakali is the next film in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe after Hanu-Man. The project is presented by RK Duggal and produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal under the RKD Studios banner. Prasanth Varma is the creator of the cinematic universe, while Puja Aparna Kolluru is directing the film.
The cast includes Bhoomi Shetty, Rohit Saraf and several other actors alongside Akshaye Khanna. The makers are developing the film on a large scale, with the story drawing from Indian Itihasa and mythology.
With its focus on mythology, detailed visuals and a large cinematic world, Mahakali is expected to add another chapter to Prasanth Varma’s expanding universe. For now, audiences will have to wait until August 24 to see the first glimpse and Khanna’s reported transformation as Shukracharya.