Kannappa (film)

The film, based on the mythological story of Kannappa, a devotee of the god Shiva, took nearly a decade to materialize. In December 2013, screenwriter and director Tanikella Bharani disclosed to the media that he is working on the pre-production of a period drama film set in the 6th to 8th century, titled Bhaktha Kannappa.[5] However, in June 2015, actor-producer Vishnu Manchu announced that his production company, 24 Frames Factory, would collaborate with an American company to produce a film titled Kannappa Katha.[6] It was reported that Bharani sold his original screenplay for Bhaktha Kannappa to Vishnu after waiting for several years to convince a producer. Later Vishnu developed the full story and hired writers to revise the screenplay and make necessary changes.[7]

Kannappa was officially launched with a pooja ceremony on 18 August 2023 at Srikalahasteeswara temple in Srikalahasti. Mukesh Kumar Singh was confirmed as the director, who had earlier directed several mythological television series like Tenali Rama, Mere Sai, Hanumaan, Mahabharat, Ramayan, Shakuntal, and Meera series who well known for his direction work. The film was produced by Vishnu's father Mohan Babu through his companies 24 Frames Factory and AVA Entertainments.[8][9][10] Story idea given by Tanikella Bharani and written by Vishnu. The screenplay was written by Paruchuri Gopala Krishna, Thota Prasad, Sainath Thotapalli, and Sai Madhav Burra.[11] In addition to the screenwriters, the support of V. Vijayendra Prasad, G. Nageswara Reddy, and G. Eshwar Reddy were also "instrumental in developing a script", according to a public statement made by Vishnu.[12]

Vishnu went for location scouting in New Zealand in April 2019 and selected important locations for the film shoot.[13] Chinna was the art director, Sheldon Chau was the cinematographer,[14] editor was Anthony, dance choreographers were Prem Rakshith and Brinda, while the stunt choreography was done by Kecha Khamphakdee.

Vishnu Manchu plays the title role of Kannappa, a devote of god Shiva.[15] In August 2023, after the film's official launch, the makers announced that prominent actors from various film industries would be joining the cast.[16] Nupur Sanon was confirmed in the leading female role, however, she opted out from the film in September 2023 due to scheduling conflicts.[17] In September, Prabhas was confirmed in the movie for an important role.[18][19][20] In the same month, Mohanlal was also confirmed in an undisclosed role.[12] On 12th October Shiva Rajkumar was also confirmed by the movie team.[21]

Principal photography of the film is scheduled to begin in the first week of October 2023, to be shot in a single schedule spanning 90 days in New Zealand.[22]