Akshaye Khanna Returns as Shukracharya in ‘Mahakali’; First Glimpse Set for August 24
Akshaye Khanna is set to take on a striking new role in Mahakali, the upcoming mythological superhero film from filmmaker Prasanth Varma’s Cinematic Universe (PVCU). The actor, who recently drew widespread attention for his performance in Dhurandhar, will portray Shukracharya, the powerful guru of the Asuras.
The makers unveiled Khanna’s first look on August 19, giving audiences an early glimpse of his transformation. The much-awaited first glimpse of Mahakali is scheduled to arrive on August 24, 2026.
Akshaye Khanna’s Shukracharya Look Creates Buzz
The first look has immediately generated excitement among moviegoers, with Khanna appearing significantly different from his recent screen roles.
In Mahakali, the actor steps into the mythological world as Shukracharya, traditionally described as the guru and spiritual teacher of the Asuras. His character is expected to have a significant role in the film's larger conflict.
The reveal comes at a particularly interesting point in Khanna's career, following the attention surrounding his performance in Dhurandhar. His transition from a contemporary dramatic character to a mythological figure has become one of the major talking points surrounding Mahakali.
Mahakali First Glimpse to Release on August 24
The makers have confirmed August 24 as the date for the first glimpse of Mahakali.
A promotional announcement from the team has been building anticipation around the date, with the film's marketing campaign now shifting attention toward its characters and larger cinematic world. Several reports have identified the August 24 reveal as the film's first major glimpse.
The upcoming glimpse is expected to provide audiences with a clearer look at the film's visual style, mythology and Khanna's portrayal of Shukracharya.
Akshaye Khanna Makes Telugu Debut With Mahakali
Mahakali is also significant for Akshaye Khanna because it marks his Telugu film debut.
The project is part of the expanding Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe, which began with Hanu-Man. Khanna was announced as Shukracharya in 2025, while Bhoomi Shetty was announced as the titular Mahakali.
The film is directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, with Prasanth Varma serving as the creative force behind the wider cinematic universe. The project is being produced under RKD Studios.
Who Is Shukracharya in Mahakali?
Shukracharya is one of the most intriguing figures in Indian mythology and is traditionally known as the guru of the Asuras.
His association with powerful knowledge and supernatural abilities makes the character particularly suitable for a mythological superhero universe. In Mahakali, the character is expected to become an important part of the film's larger narrative.
The decision to cast Akshaye Khanna in the role has also attracted attention because of the actor's ability to portray restrained, intense and morally complex characters.
Mahakali Expands the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe
The upcoming film represents another major expansion of Prasanth Varma's interconnected superhero universe.
After Hanu-Man, the filmmaker has been developing multiple stories rooted in Indian mythology and folklore while giving them a modern cinematic treatment. Mahakali is expected to take that approach into a darker and more mythological direction.
The film centres on Goddess Mahakali, with Bhoomi Shetty playing the titular character. The project is being positioned as a female-led superhero story within the PVCU.
From Dhurandhar to Shukracharya
Akshaye Khanna's casting has become one of the most closely followed aspects of the project, particularly after his recent success with Dhurandhar.
The actor's performance in Dhurandhar brought renewed attention to his screen presence, and his next transformation into Shukracharya has generated considerable curiosity among fans.
The contrast between his recent role and the mythological character has also made Mahakali an important upcoming project in his filmography.
Akshaye Khanna’s Transformation Draws Attention
Earlier behind-the-scenes material from the film had already teased Khanna's appearance as Shukracharya. In March, Prasanth Varma shared a behind-the-scenes image from the sets while wishing the actor on his birthday, further increasing interest in his role.
With the official first look now unveiled, audiences have their first proper indication of how the actor will appear in the mythological world of Mahakali.
The August 24 glimpse is expected to reveal much more about the character and the film's overall tone.
What to Expect From the August 24 Mahakali Glimpse
The first glimpse could become a major promotional milestone for the film, particularly because it will introduce audiences to the central characters and the visual scale of the project.
With Akshaye Khanna's Shukracharya already generating strong online discussion, expectations are high for the upcoming reveal.
The film's combination of mythology, superhero storytelling, a female-led central character and the expanding PVCU has made Mahakali one of the more anticipated upcoming Indian genre films.
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