Kannappa Took 9 Years: Vishnu Manchu on Casting Prabhas & Akshay Kumar Struggle

Kannappa Took 9 Years: The historical action film Kannappa, directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, is a dream project of actor Vishnu Manchu. In an exclusive interview, Vishnu revealed that the film, produced by his father Mohan Babu, stars major names like Prabhas, Akshay KMukesh Kumar Singhumar, Mohanlal, and Vishnu himself. Let’s see what he had to share about this ambitious venture.

Is Kannappa just a film or a mythological epic?

I’d call Kannappa a historical action movie. The idea came to me in 2014, and I started writing the script in 2015. Filming finally began in 2023, so the entire process took us 9 years—from concept to completion.

They say every role finds its actor. How did you go about casting such big stars?

I personally approached each of the actors, and they all agreed. I sincerely thank them because the film didn’t necessarily need stars of such magnitude, yet they came on board. One major reason is their respect for my father, Mohan Babu. Also, they had full faith in the script. Mohanlal ji is part of the film, and three of its songs have been choreographed by Prabhu Deva.

Is it true that Akshay Kumar initially turned down the film? If yes, what changed his mind?

Akshay Kumar is one of the biggest stars in India. He was offered a 7-day role, and his team initially wasn't on board. I spoke with Sudha Kongara, who had worked with him earlier (on Sarfira), and requested her to speak with him. Later, I personally spoke with Akshay sir on a phone call, and he agreed during that very first conversation.

Akshay Kumar is known for his punctuality, whereas Prabhas is said to have a different working style. Did that cause any scheduling issues?
Not at all. Everyone was very professional. Work was done on time and efficiently. I myself prefer shooting in the mornings as I sleep early and don’t prefer night shoots unless necessary.

Does insecurity exist in the South film industry as well?

Insecurity exists everywhere. Any entertainer will feel it in some form. It depends on what kind of insecurity it is. But as an actor, you shouldn’t feel insecure while performing a role.

Did you ever feel insecure while working with a superstar like Prabhas?

Prabhas is Asia’s biggest superstar, and I’ve never seen insecurity in him. Of course, actors can feel insecure around film releases or big stakes. But Prabhas knows his stature well. Today, he is a much bigger star than I am, and I’m very grateful that he did this film purely out of love and warmth, not for any other reason.

Was acting always your dream, or did it happen by chance?

Yes, I always wanted to become an actor since childhood, but my father wanted me to become an IPS officer. Still, my dream was to act, and now I’ve made Kannappa. My siblings are also actors—it’s a legacy we are carrying forward. Thankfully, we had our father’s full support. People often compare us, but they should understand that my father and I are very different as actors.

Did this journey of making Kannappa teach you anything personal?

Absolutely! It taught me patience and showed me that no dream is impossible if you work hard and believe in your vision. My message to everyone is—have patience and work with dedication.

Which actors have inspired you the most in your journey?

Legends like Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, and Amrish Puri have always inspired me. I’ve also learned a lot from Anil Kapoor’s energy and Nana Patekar’s acting prowess. I try to bring that inspiration into my own performances.

Today’s Gen-Z audience is very particular about content. What in Kannappa will attract them to the theatres?

The film is packed with action and has been crafted keeping the youth in mind. It portrays the full story of Kannappa—where he came from, why he was once an atheist, and how his life evolved. Every element is presented in a creatively fictionalized manner.

Kannappa is releasing in theatres on June 27. It is a grand mythological action film that promises to deliver a unique cinematic experience to audiences.

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