In a significant career move, actor Akshaye Khanna has commenced work on the sets of the much-anticipated mythological epic 'Mahakali'. This project marks his highly awaited Telugu film debut. The development comes closely on the heels of his controversial departure from the Bollywood franchise Drishyam 3, a move that has sparked a public spat with the film's producer.
From Drishyam Drama to Mythological Epic
Khanna, who is currently enjoying the success of the spy action film Dhurandhar, joined the production of Mahakali in early January 2026. The film, starring Bhoomi Shetty in the titular role, is the next big installment in the Prashanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). Touted as Tollywood's first female superhero film, it is scheduled for an early 2026 release.
Director Puja Kolluru recently shared a year-wrap post on Instagram, which featured a selfie with Akshaye Khanna from the film's sets, confirming his active involvement. In the movie, Khanna will be seen portraying the pivotal character of Shukracharya, the guru of the demons. The actor's first-look poster was unveiled by director Prashanth Varma back in September.
The Drishyam 3 Exit Fallout
Khanna's shift to Telugu cinema is shadowed by a major controversy. Last week, it was confirmed that he had walked out of the Drishyam 3 franchise just days before the shoot was to begin. The film's producer, Kumar Mangat Pathak, did not mince words while speaking to Bollywood Hungama.
Pathak alleged that "success has gone to Akshaye Khanna's head" and sent him a legal notice following the exit. He recounted giving Khanna a career revival with Section 375 and later Drishyam 2, claiming the actor was "sitting at home for 3-4 years" before that. Pathak described Khanna's on-set energy as "absolutely toxic."
In a scathing critique, Pathak also downplayed Khanna's recent success, attributing the box office performance of Dhurandhar primarily to co-star Ranveer Singh. He challenged Khanna's star status, stating that a solo film by the actor wouldn't even collect Rs 50 crore in India and questioned which studio would greenlight a big-budget project with him as the lead.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in PVCU
Despite the turmoil in his Hindi film career, Akshaye Khanna's foray into the PVCU with Mahakali represents a fresh start. The cinematic universe, known for its innovative storytelling and high production values, offers him a chance to reach a massive new audience in the South Indian film market.
As the shoot progresses in Mumbai, all eyes will be on how Khanna's portrayal of Shukracharya is received and whether this move can solidify his position as a pan-India actor, leaving the Drishyam 3 controversy behind.
