The highly anticipated Telugu mythological action drama Kannappa, starring Vishnu Manchu, has set the box office ablaze, selling an unprecedented 115,000 tickets within just 24 hours of advance booking. This remarkable feat, ahead of the film’s global release on June 27, 2025, reflects the immense love and anticipation for this cinematic tribute to Lord Shiva’s greatest devotee, Bhakta Kannappa.

Vishnu Manchu expressed his gratitude on X:

“My heart is racing! 🙏🏽 To witness this kind of pre-release love and anticipation is truly humbling. I’m deeply grateful to every movie lover for the unwavering support. This is not just a film. This is all glory to Lord Shiva and #Kannappa. #HarHarMahadev”

At NRIGlobe.com, we explore this phenomenal advance booking success, the film’s star-studded cast, and why Kannappa is poised to be a landmark in Indian cinema.

Unprecedented Advance Booking Success

The news of Kannappa selling 115,000 tickets in 24 hours has sent ripples through the Indian film industry. According to BookMyShow, over 27,000 tickets were sold in the Telugu states alone. Globally, advance booking numbers continue to soar, driven by the film’s devotional theme, breathtaking visuals, and powerhouse cast — including Vishnu Manchu, Akshay Kumar, Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Kajal Aggarwal.

The Andhra Pradesh government’s approval of a ₹50 ticket price hike for both multiplexes and single-screen theaters highlights the film’s anticipated draw — a privilege previously granted to blockbusters like Kuberaa.

In the US, Kannappa’s pre-sales hit $25,000 across 298 locations and 577 premiere shows, with ticket sales doubling in just 24 hours (from 486 to 1,113 tickets). Industry experts predict a potential ₹100 crore global day-one gross, a rare achievement for a devotional Telugu film.

The Story of Kannappa: A Tale of Devotion

Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu under 24 Frames Factory and AVA Entertainments, Kannappa tells the legendary tale of a tribal hunter who becomes one of Lord Shiva’s most ardent devotees — even offering his own eyes in supreme devotion.

The trailer, released on June 15, 2025, showcases Vishnu Manchu’s spiritual journey, intense action, and powerful cameos:

• Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva
• Kajal Aggarwal as Goddess Parvati
• Prabhas as Rudra
• Mohanlal as Kirata

Early reviews praise the film’s emotional depth and spine-chilling climax, with trade analyst Sumit Kadel calling the final 30 minutes “goosebumps-inducing”, and Rohit Jaiswal describing the last 40 minutes as “spectacular”.

A Star-Studded Cast Elevates the Epic

The film blends talent across industries:
✅ Vishnu Manchu delivers a career-defining performance as Kannappa.
✅ Akshay Kumar, making his Telugu debut, shines as Lord Shiva.
✅ Kajal Aggarwal, graceful as Parvati.
✅ Prabhas and Mohanlal, offering powerful cameos out of respect for Mohan Babu, without charging fees.

Supporting cast: Mohan Babu, R. Sarathkumar, Brahmanandam, Arpit Ranka, Preity Mukhundhan, and Madhoo.

The film’s visual grandeur is amplified by Oscar-winning Wētā Workshop’s VFX and Stephen Devassy’s evocative score.

Production Challenges and Triumphs

Kannappa’s decade-long journey began in 2013. Principal photography started in September 2023 across stunning New Zealand locations, chosen for their untouched landscapes to recreate a 2nd-century world.

Despite challenges — Vishnu’s injury, a VFX footage theft, and online controversies — the makers delayed the film from April 25 to June 27, 2025, to perfect the VFX.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Beyond cinema, Kannappa is a devotional offering to Lord Shiva, celebrating timeless bhakti (devotion). Vishnu Manchu’s dedication — including consultations with historians and priests — ensures authenticity.

The film’s spiritual fervor has captured hearts globally, with its teaser receiving acclaim at Cannes 2024 and praise from leaders like UP CM Yogi Adityanath, who hailed it as a “cultural resurrection”.

Box Office Expectations and Global Reach

With 5,400+ screens worldwide, Kannappa is positioned as a global cinematic event. While US pre-sales started modestly, the rapid ticket sale surge signals growing excitement. The ₹50 ticket price hike further reflects confidence in a blockbuster opening.

Overcoming Trolls and Controversies

The makers have strongly addressed defamatory campaigns, backed by Delhi High Court’s protection of their publicity rights. Despite occasional backlash, the focus remains on the film’s positive message of devotion and sacrifice.

Conclusion

The sale of 115,000 tickets in 24 hours is a testament to the unparalleled excitement for Kannappa. A grand blend of mythology, action, and cinematic spectacle, this is a must-watch for Lord Shiva devotees and film lovers alike.

✨ Book your tickets today and join the global chant of #HarHarMahadev to witness the divine saga of Bhakta Kannappa on June 27, 2025!