Kannappa, starring Vishnu Manchu with powerful cameos by Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Akshay Kumar, has sparked a wave of mixed reactions
A Star-Studded Devotional Epic Hits Theatres
Released on June 27, 2025, Kannappa is Vishnu Manchu’s long-cherished dream project, a mythological drama rooted in the legend of Bhakta Kannappa, a tribal hunter who becomes a devout follower of Lord Shiva. Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu’s 24 Frames Factory, the film boasts a pan-India cast including Prabhas, Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, and Kajal Aggarwal in special appearances.
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The film’s narrative follows Thinna, an atheist warrior who transforms into a spiritual devotee through trials of faith and sacrifice. While the story is steeped in devotion and Sanatana Dharma values, it also explores themes of violence, redemption, and divine intervention.
Despite facing pre-release controversies and censor board scrutiny, Kannappa managed to secure a U/A 13+ certificate after several cuts and disclaimers were added to avoid backlash.
Audience Verdict: Goosebumps, Grit, and Growing Pains
Public reactions to Kannappa have been a rollercoaster. Social media is buzzing with praise for the film’s emotional second half, powerful cameos, and spiritual climax, while also pointing out flaws in pacing and visual effects.
Highlights from netizen reviews:
- Vishnu Manchu’s performance in the final 20 minutes is being hailed as his career-best.
- Prabhas’ cameo as Rudra has been described as “goosebump-inducing” and “screen-shattering.”
- Akshay Kumar and Mohanlal’s appearances added gravitas and star power.
- The Mahashivratri sequence is being called the film’s emotional and visual peak.
- Criticism includes a slow first half, patchy VFX, and inconsistent editing.
One user wrote, “Kannappa is an emotional rollercoaster, but you’ll need patience! The first half is slow and some VFX feels patchy. However, Vishnu Manchu is fantastic, and the cameos from Prabhas & Akshay Kumar set the screen on fire.”
Another fan shared, “The last 25 minutes were pure goosebumps. The theatre went silent, and everyone synced with the emotion. Honestly, great cinema for the weekend.”
Myth Meets Modernity: A Risky Yet Reverent Retelling
Kannappa attempts to bridge ancient devotion with modern cinematic spectacle. Shot across stunning New Zealand landscapes, the film’s visual ambition is evident, even if not always technically flawless. The music and background score have been widely appreciated for enhancing the film’s devotional tone.
The film’s climax, where Thinna offers his eyes to Lord Shiva, has been compared to the emotional intensity of Kantara and other spiritual dramas. It’s a moment that has resonated deeply with audiences, especially those familiar with the original folklore.
Despite its flaws, Kannappa succeeds in sparking conversations about faith, sacrifice, and the power of belief. It’s a film that dares to be different, blending mythology with mass appeal, and reverence with risk.
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