The Tamil-language mythological epic, Kannappa, is finally gearing up for its grand theatrical release on June 27, 2025, and all eyes are on its star-studded ensemble. The film, directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu, features a rich cast, with names like Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Akshay Kumar attached to the pan-Indian project. The names alone give the impression that the production must have shelled out crores for each cameo, and actor-producer Vishnu Manchu has now shared how much the actors charged for Kannappa.
Vishnu Manchu says Prabhas and Mohanlal didn’t change anything for their roles
In a recent interview with Zoom, Vishnu Manchu shared that despite their massive stardom, Prabhas and Mohanlal agreed to do their extended cameos in Kannappa without charging a single rupee. The film, which boasts a massive budget of Rs. 200 crore, features Prabhas as ‘Rudra’ and Mohanlal as ‘Kirata’.
Vishnu Manchu, who plays the role of ‘Thinnadu’ in Kannappa, revealed to Zoom that both superstars readily agreed to star in the film, solely out of friendship and love, and didn’t charge anything. When asked about his experience organising such an ensemble cast, Vishnu shared his delight at how the actors had readily agreed to the roles. He was quoted as saying:
“Not all of them, but Prabhas and Mohanlal didn’t charge me. But for their hard work, I will have to give them once the movie releases and after the success of the movie. I owe them. It’s not the question of them taking money or not. But, it’s the question of them that at this stage in their career, they don’t need to do these extended cameos. And, I’m grateful to them for having come and doing it.”
Vishnu Manchu shares how Mohanlal and Prabhas agreed to work in his dream project
For Vishnu Manchu, Kannappa is a dream project, and he wanted to cast actors with wider fan bases for its commercial success. Earlier, during an interview with SCREEN, Vishnu shared how surprisingly easy it was to get Mohanlal on board, as was the case with casting Prabhas. Vishnu shared that the Malayalam icon instantly said yes due to his long-standing relationship with Vishnu’s father, veteran actor Mohan Babu. He shared:
“Mohanlal sir didn’t even take a minute to say yes. He agreed purely out of love and respect for my father, Mohan Babu. He didn’t have to do a small role in my film, but he said yes instantly.”
When he reached out to Prabhas, the Baahubali star did something that touched Vishnu’s heart. According to the actor-producer, Prabhas was so ready for the project that he didn’t even ask for a script or a character breakdown before giving his nod. Vishnu recalled:
“Prabhas is not just a superstar in India — he’s a global name now. But when I told him I needed his help for a wider reach, he immediately agreed. He didn’t even ask what the role was. He just said, ‘I’m in.'”
While Prabhas and Mohanlal’s generosity made headlines, the fee details of other actors, including Akshay Kumar, remain under wraps.
About Vishnu Manchu’s upcoming film, Kannappa
Kannappa is a Telugu mythological action drama directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh that brings to life the story of the legendary Bhakta Kannappa, a fearless warrior who evolves into one of Lord Shiva’s most devoted followers. Vishnu leads the cast as ‘Thinnadu’, while Akshay Kumar plays ‘Lord Shiva’. Prabhas takes on the role of ‘Rudra’, and Mohanlal appears as ‘Kirata’. The film also stars Kajal Aggarwal as ‘Goddess Parvati’, adding to its impressive ensemble. The film is hitting the theatres on June 27, 2025.
What are your thoughts on Mohanlal and Prabhas’s heartfelt gesture to Vishnu Manchu in Kannappa?
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