Akshay Kumar and Rana Daggubati have earlier shared the screen in the action thriller Baby (2015). The actors are now set to reunite for an upcoming mythological-historical film titled Mahakaal. The ambitious film will be helmed by National Award-winning director Chandoo Mondeti. Speaking to Filmfare, he shared the backstory of how the project materialised.
Mahakaal has Ujjaini backdrop
Apparently, Akshay and Rana have been looking to team up for a Pan-India film after Baby. “I met Rana garu, and he shared that they were looking for a good script that resonates with all sections of the audiences,” shares Chandoo, who later came up with the story idea set against an Ujjaini backdrop.
Rana and Akshay liked the script, and the director then started developing the idea. “I have been working on the script for over six months, and it is nearing completion. This phase has been very exciting because while researching for the Mahakaal script, I could experience the vibes I got while writing the action-adventure *Karthikeya 2*,” shared the director.
The film explores the ancient and cultural landscape of the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
Contemporary story with historical elements
Chandoo reiterates that the story of Mahakaal will be set in contemporary times but will be laced with historical elements. “The story also has a supernatural element to it,” he reveals, adding that it also travels across multiple locations.
“We have taken the Sthalapurana (regional or oral account that narrates the sacred history) and historical elements/incidents associated with the place and have weaved a script set in the present day. During this period, working on the script has been a fascinating experience.”
Akshay and Rana in interesting roles
The director adds that his discussions with the team, as well as the musical sittings, have been very exciting. When asked about the roles of Akshay Kumar and Rana Daggubati, Chandoo remains tight-lipped. “It’s too early to reveal, but we are designing interesting roles for them. Their characters will be a complete departure.”
Karthik Ghattamaneni, who is also a director, has been finalised as the film’s cinematographer. The makers are keen to take the film on floors in February 2027. Karan Johar will bankroll the film, and a producer from the Telugu film industry is likely to join the project. The film unit will visit Ujjaini and other locations as part of the pre-production process.