Akshaye Khanna as Shukracharya

Akshaye Khanna is set to appear in a striking new avatar in Mahakali, where he plays Shukracharya, the legendary guru of the Asuras.

His long beard, matted hair, traditional attire and intense appearance make the character almost unrecognisable compared with his recent screen roles.

‘Shukracharya’s War Cry’

The first glimpse, titled ‘Shukracharya’s War Cry’, runs for approximately 2 minutes and 53 seconds.

The video introduces the film's mythological world and establishes a large-scale conflict between the forces of Dharma and Adharma.

War Against the Devas

Khanna's Shukracharya is shown preparing the Asuras for a major confrontation.

The glimpse suggests that the Asuras have been banished to the netherworld and that Shukracharya wants to free them and restore their power. He also calls upon Raktabeej to unleash destruction upon humanity.

Sriya Reddy's Powerful Appearance

Actress Sriya Reddy also makes a striking appearance towards the end of the glimpse.

She is reportedly playing Goddess Mahakali, while Bhoomi Shetty takes on the lead role and Rohit Saraf appears in an important character.

Part of Prasanth Varma's Cinematic Universe

‘Mahakali’ is part of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU), which expanded into mythology and superhero storytelling with ‘Hanu-Man’.

The new film is directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru and is positioned as another major chapter in the expanding universe.

Release Date Announced

Along with the glimpse, the makers confirmed the film's theatrical release date.

Mahakali will release worldwide on January 8, 2027.

Akshaye Khanna's Telugu Debut

The film also marks Akshaye Khanna's Telugu cinema debut.

Following the success and attention surrounding his recent performances, his transformation into Shukracharya has already generated considerable interest among audiences.

Conclusion

Akshaye Khanna has made a powerful impression as Shukracharya in the first glimpse of ‘Mahakali’.

The ‘Shukracharya’s War Cry’ video sets up a large-scale mythological battle involving the Asuras, devas and humanity. The film, starring Bhoomi Shetty, Sriya Reddy and Rohit Saraf alongside Khanna, is scheduled to release worldwide on January 8, 2027.