This is how much Prabhas, Mohanlal charged for 'Kannappa' cameos
What's the story
Actor-producer Vishnu Manchu is busy promoting his upcoming mythological drama, Kannappa. The film has a number of high-profile cameos, including those by Prabhas and Mohanlal.
The Telugu-language drama, helmed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, is based on the legend of Kannappa—a devotee of the god Shiva.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Manchu revealed that both superstars didn't charge a dime for their cameo appearances in the film.
Unpaid cameos
'They both did not charge a single penny...'
Manchu revealed that neither Prabhas nor Mohanlal needed any convincing to do the film.
He revealed, "They both did not charge a single penny. They are both so big that they didn't need to do this character."
"When I asked Mohanlal sir if I could talk to his manager to discuss financials, he laughed and said, 'So you think you've become a big boy now?' People like him and Prabhas make me believe in the value of friendships."
Casting details
'Kannappa' features a star-studded cast
In Kannappa, Manchu will play the titular character, while Mohanlal and Prabhas essay pivotal roles. While the former will play Kirata, the latter will play The Divine Guardian Rudra.
The film also stars Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva and Kajal Aggarwal as Goddess Parvati.
Manchu revealed Kumar initially rejected his offer twice before finally agreeing to be the face of Lord Shiva for this generation.
Film's inspiration
'Kannappa' is a modern retelling of an ancient tale
Kannappa draws inspiration from the story of Bhakta Kannappa, a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva.
Speaking about the film in his interview, Manchu emphasized that there have been many older films based on Kannappa's life, and a modern retelling was necessary.
"In 1938, the first film about Kannappa was made in Tamil...Ours is the first in 36 years to tell Kannappa's story," he said.
Festival screening
'Kannappa' received positive response at Cannes
Kannappa was screened at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it received an overwhelmingly positive response.
Post the screening, Manchu wrote on X/Twitter, "We showcased the teaser of Kannappa here in Cannes, and it received an overwhelmingly positive response! International distributors, local Indians, and everyone who saw it absolutely loved it."
The film is set to release in theaters on April 25.