Hindi Cinema’s seasoned actor Akshaye Khanna has stunned audiences once again, this time with his first look as Shukracharya in the upcoming film Mahakali on the day of Mahashtami. Known as the guru of the Asuras in Indian mythology, Shukracharya is a towering figure in Indian mythology, and Akshaye’s transformation into the role is already creating waves among netizens. Directed by Puja Kolluru (previously directed the 2023 Telugu satire film Martin Luther King) and produced by RK Duggal and Riwaz Ramesh Duggal of RKD Studios, the film is written and conceptualised by Prasanth Varma, who is weaving a cinematic universe deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Akshaye Khanna as Shukracharya
Akshaye Khanna’s acting prowess, voice, and screen presence make him a perfect fit for Shukracharya. The first look presents him as a larger-than-life character with a mix of wisdom and intensity, something Akshaye could bring alive on screen. Fans believe this could be one of the actor’s most memorable performances yet, blending mythology with modern storytelling.
The Rise of the PVCU
Mahakali is the next chapter in the ‘Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe’ (PVCU), which began with the blockbuster HanuMan (2024). The PVCU is Prasanth’s ambitious venture to build a connected universe inspired by Indian mythology, folklore, history and superheroes. Much like Hollywood’s MCU & DCU, it aims to tell interconnected stories, but with a completely Indian soul.
Upcoming Projects in the Universe
After HanuMan, the PVCU is already expanding with titles like Jai Hanuman, Aditya, and now Mahakali. Each film adds new characters, powers, and mythological elements to the growing canvas. With Mahakali, the viewers get introduced to Shukracharya in a darker and more complex world.
Prasanth Varma’s Vision
Director Prasanth Varma has positioned himself as one of the most exciting storytellers in Indian cinema. His strength lies in merging the grandeur of rooted mythological and historical tales with visual spectacle within a restrained budget and relatable human drama to cater for all kinds of audiences. With Mahakali, he looks to scale new heights in films, offering one that feels both epic and intimate. Along with his cinematic universe, he also has a film in his pipeline titled Brahmarakshas with Rebel Star Prabhas, which shows that big superstars are also backing his projects and having faith in him.
Akshaye Khanna’s Next Big Leap
After getting enormous praise for his menacing portrayal of Aurangazeb in Chhava this year, for Akshaye Khanna, Mahakali adds another feather to his crown of diverse filmography. While he continues to take up layered characters in mainstream films like Dhurandhar (2025), his entry into the PVCU as Shukracharya earns him a place in one of the most ambitious cinematic projects of the decade. It’s a reinvention that could redefine his career and introduce him to a wider spectrum of cinema lovers.
