The official trailer of Akshaye Khanna starrer Mahakali has been released by the makers. The actor’s first look as Shukracharya was unveiled last week, creating a lot of buzz on social media. After playing ‘the king of Lyari’ Rehman Dakait in Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar, Akshaye will be essaying the role of the Guru of the Asuras (demons) in the upcoming mythological action-adventure drama.

In the trailer, Akshaye Khanna looks almost unrecognisable – in a long white beard, matted hair, and traditional outfit. The video, titled #Shukracharya’sWarCry, opened with a powerful battle between Dharma and Adharma.

Watch: Mahakali trailer | Akshaye Khanna

Akshaye’s character Shukracharya reminded everyone how the entire race of Asuras were pushed into the netherworld, and the doors of 14 worlds were closed. His aim is to echo the victory cry of the Asuras within 14 days, so that they can be free forever. Towards the end of the trailer, he orders a demon Raktabeej to destroy the human race. But, the formidable guru will have to face the divine energy of Maa Kali in an epic conflict.

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Akshaye Khanna‘s fans were impressed with his portrayal of Shukracharya, and they instantly flooded the comments section with appreciation. “AKSHAY KHANNA DAY BY DAY,” a user wrote. Another fan commented, “Akshay Khanna Sir nailed it.” “Akshay Khanna! another blockbuster loading..,” a third comment read. “Mahakali Teaser Goosebumps,” a person wrote.

Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe

The upcoming saga is a part of Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe, which released its first film Hanu-man, in 2024. It received a lot of praise and broke many box office records. The Telugu superhero film, starring Teja Sajja, earned a total of Rs 295.29 crore gross worldwide. As Jai Hanuman is also being made as a part of this universe, Mahakali is now the third film.

About Mahakali

Directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, the story of Mahakali has been written by Prashanth Varma. The superhero film will be centered around Goddess Kali, set in Bengal, and will symbolize the themes of women empowerment, faith, and courage. Set to also release in IMAX 3D, makers are prepping for an international release in many languages.

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The music has been composed by Smaran Sai, and the movie is scheduled for a theatrical release on January 8, 2027. Produced by RKD Studios, Mahakali also stars Bhoomi Shetty, Rohit Saraf, Sriya Reddy, Rajat Kapoor, and Nassar.

During an interview with TV9 Telugu earlier, Prashanth Varma spoke about Mahakali, and said, “We have added a new force to our universe. The form of Kalika Devi will come to fight the most terrible evil. We will prove once again what superhero films should be.”