Kannappa Movie (2025): Cast, Story, Budget, Release Date

Kannappa is an upcoming Telugu mythological movie directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu. The story is based on the famous legend of Kannappa, a great devotee of Lord Shiva. Vishnu Manchu plays the lead role of Kannappa.

The film also features well-known actors like Mohan Babu, R. Sarathkumar, Arpit Ranka, Brahmanandam, Brahmaji, Siva Balaji, Kaushal Manda, Rahul Madhav, Devaraj, Mukesh Rishi, Raghu Babu, Preity Mukhundhan, and Madhoo in important roles.

There are also exciting special appearances by big stars like Mohanlal, Prabhas, Akshay Kumar (this is his first Telugu movie), and Kajal Aggarwal.

Kannappa (2025) – Full Star Cast and Cameo Appearances

The much-anticipated Telugu mythological film Kannappa, boasts a grand star cast and features some of the biggest names from Indian cinema.

Below is a complete list of the actors and the characters they portray in the film:

Main Cast

Vishnu Manchu as Thinnadu alias Kannappa
The protagonist of the film, a brave hunter who transforms into a devout follower of Lord Shiva.
Avram Baktha Manchu as Young Thinnadu
Plays the younger version of Kannappa, showcasing the character’s early life and journey.
Mohan Babu as Mahadeva Shasthri
A spiritual figure, guiding the protagonist in his path of devotion.
R. Sarathkumar as Nathanathudu
A key supporting character with significant influence on the storyline.
Madhoo as Pannaga
A graceful and wise character, central to the narrative.
Mukesh Rishi as Kampadu
A fierce and commanding role with a strong presence.
Brahmaji as Gavvaraju
Brings depth and color to the film through his character.
Karunas as Veerayya
Adds a touch of humor and emotion to the story.
Brahmanandam as Pilaka
Known for his comedic timing, Brahmanandam plays a light-hearted yet important role.
Raghu Babu as Mallayya
Another character that blends humor with heart.
Aishwariyaa Bhaskaran as Maremma
A strong female character contributing to the hero’s emotional journey.
Preity Mukhundhan as Nemali
A supporting role that adds beauty and emotional balance.
Devaraj as Mundadu
Plays a powerful role in shaping the fate of the protagonist.
Lavi Pajni as Bebbuli
Adds to the film’s dynamic character ensemble.
Siva Balaji as Kumara Deva Shastri
A pivotal character in the mythological setting.
Arpit Ranka as Kala Mukha
Brings a dark and intense energy to the screen.
Sampath Ram as Chandudu
A commanding presence with a strong role.
Kaushal Manda as Maali
A supporting character contributing to the dramatic elements of the story.
Surekha Vani as Nagamalli
Plays a maternal and caring figure.
Saptagiri as Gilaka
Offers comic relief and lightens the narrative.
Josita Anola Rodrigues as Josita Rodrigues
A contemporary presence with a graceful role.

Special Cameo Appearances

The film also features several star-studded cameos that are sure to excite fans:

Mohanlal as Kirata
The legendary Malayalam actor appears in a divine role.
Prabhas as Rudra
The Baahubali star graces the screen with his power-packed presence.
Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva
A major highlight—Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar makes a divine appearance as Lord Shiva.
Kajal Aggarwal as Goddess Parvati
A serene and spiritual portrayal of the goddess by Kajal Aggarwal.

Kannappa Storyline

Thinnadu is a fearless and skilled hunter, born and raised in a tribal community. He believes only in what he can see and touch—making him an atheist at heart. But everything changes when he stumbles upon a mysterious Shiva Lingam deep in the forest.

Despite having no knowledge of rituals or scriptures, Thinnadu begins worshiping Lord Shiva in his own innocent way—with raw offerings like meat, water from his mouth, and sincere love. Over time, his devotion grows so deep that it surpasses even that of learned priests.

The film reaches an emotional peak when Lord Shiva tests his devotee. When Thinnadu sees blood flowing from the Shiva Lingam’s eye, he doesn’t hesitate—he plucks out his own eye to heal the god. And when the second eye is hurt, he places his foot to mark the spot before removing the other one.

Impressed and moved by this ultimate act of devotion, Lord Shiva appears before him and grants him divine status, naming him Kannappa, a true embodiment of bhakti (devotion).

Budget

The film Kannappa is a grand Telugu mythological epic made on an impressive budget of ₹120 crore. With large-scale sets, high-end VFX, and an international filming schedule—primarily in New Zealand—the movie showcases top-tier production values. The big budget also reflects the star-studded cast, including cameo appearances by Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Akshay Kumar. Backed by a powerful storyline and rich visuals, Kannappa is one of the most ambitious Indian films in recent times.

Release Date

The highly anticipated mythological drama Kannappa is officially set to hit theaters on 27 June 2025. With its powerful storyline, visual grandeur, and star-studded cast, the film is expected to be one of the major pan-India releases of the year. Fans across the country are eagerly waiting to witness this epic tale of devotion unfold on the big screen.