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Vishnu Manchu’s latest film, Kannappa, has finally hit the silver screens. In a combination of incredible imagery, irresistible cameos, and unforgiving storytelling, the trailer has sparked incredible anticipation for the movie. The film stars Vishnu Manchu as the titular lead and is a genre-defining mythological action drama.
It has captured everyone’s attention not only because of its impressive visual effects and engaging cast but also because of its authentic religious subtext. But as we began to get excited, one question arose—is Kannappa based on a real story, or is this just another cinematic make-believe?
Specifically, Kannappa is not based on the real life of any historical individual, but in fact, it takes inspiration from a real story chronicled in Hindu scriptures. It tells the tale of a tribal man named Thinnan aka Thinnadu, who starts as a non-believer on this incredible journey, and eventually becomes one of the greatest devotees of Lord Shiva ever to find faith in the Lord. Thinnadu’s emotional and spiritual journey is what really creates the significance of this story.
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According to Hindu scripture, Thinnadu came across a Shiva Lingam located deep in the forest and began worshipping it in his primordial and unrefined way. Though his act broke typical rituals, Lord Shiva was deeply moved by his genuine devotion. The story reaches its peak when Thinnadu offers one of his eyes to the Lingam and is about to give up the other, but Lord Shiva appears just in time to stop him, blessing him and giving him the name Kannappa.
This moment… I’ve waited for it my entire life.
Hearing the overwhelming love pouring in from overseas premieres and early morning shows in India fills my heart with gratitude.🙏#Kannappa is no longer just my film—it’s yours now.🙏❤️ #HarHarMahadev pic.twitter.com/BUOZA3tgOQ— Vishnu Manchu (@iVishnuManchu) June 27, 2025
Kannappa brings this emotional tale to the big screen with epic visuals and a high-scale production. The film received a UA 13+ certificate from the CBFC and has a runtime of 3 hours and 2 minutes.
Apart from Vishnu Manchu, the film stars Mohan Babu, R. Sarathkumar, Arpit Ranka, Brahmanandam, and others. Prabhas as Rudra, Mohanlal as Kirata, Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva, and Kajal Aggarwal as Goddess Parvati make special cameo appearances.
Rebel God 🙇🛐#Prabhas #Kannappa pic.twitter.com/kf94ta5k3k
— Prabhas Cuts (@PrabhasHDCuts) June 14, 2025
Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu, the film’s music is scored by Stephen Devassy. Sheldon Chau handles cinematography, and Anthony handles editing. While not a historical tale, Kannappa is a cinematic tribute to an age-old legend that still holds a place in many people’s hearts. It’s a story of raw faith, ultimate sacrifice, and divine love.
Check out the trailer of Kannappa below:
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