The film was formally launched on 18 August 2023. Principal photography began on 25 September 2023 in New Zealand. The original score and songs were composed by Stephen Devassy and Mani Sharma. Originally shot in Telugu, the film would be dubbed and released in multiple Indian languages.
The film, based on the mythological story of Kannappa, a devotee of the god Shiva, took nearly a decade to materialize. In December 2013, screenwriter and director Tanikella Bharani disclosed to the media that he is working on the pre-production of a period drama film set in the 14th century, titled Bhaktha Kannappa. He had cast Sunil in the role of Kannappa.[6] In June 2015, actor-producer Vishnu Manchu announced that his production company, 24 Frames Factory, would collaborate with an American company to produce a film titled Kannappa Katha, to be directed by Bharani.[7] Reports indicated that Bharani sold his original screenplay for Bhaktha Kannappa to Vishnu after waiting for several years to convince a producer. Manchu hired writers to work of the film and make necessary changes.[8]
Kannappa was officially launched with a pooja ceremony on 18 August 2023 at Srikalahasteeswara temple in Srikalahasti. Mukesh Kumar Singh was attached as the director, who had earlier directed several mythological television series. The film is being produced by Vishnu's father, Mohan Babu, under 24 Frames Factory and AVA Entertainments.[9][10][11] At that time, it was reported that the story was developed by Paruchuri Gopala Krishna, Thota Prasad, Sainath Thotapalli, and Sai Madhav Burra.[12] Additionally, the support of V. Vijayendra Prasad, G. Nageswara Reddy, and G. Eshwar Reddy were also "instrumental in developing a script", according to a public statement made by Manchu.[13] In the film, Manchu is credited as the "writer" and the "story development" credits are given to Paruchuri Gopala Krishna, Eshwar Reddy, G. Nageswara Reddy, and Thota Prasad.[14]
Casting
Vishnu Manchu plays the title role of Kannappa, a devote of god Shiva.[15] In July 2019, it was reported that Kajal Agarwal has been cast in the leading female role.[16] In 2023, after the film's official launch, the makers announced that prominent actors from various film industries would be joining the cast.[17] Nupur Sanon was confirmed in the leading female role, however, she opted out from the film in September 2023 due to scheduling conflicts.[18] In September, Prabhas was confirmed, reportedly in the role of lord Shiva in a special appearance.[19][20][21] In the same month, Mohanlal was also confirmed in an undisclosed role.[13] In the same month, Nayanthara was in talks to play the role of Parvathi.[22]Mohan Babu and R. Sarathkumar also appears in the film.[23]Brahmanandam completes a significant 15-day shoot for 'Kannappa' in New Zealand.[24] Preity Mukhundhan has been officially announced as the female lead by the movie production team and she is making her debut with this movie as an actress.[25][26]
Filming
Manchu went for location scouting in New Zealand in April 2019.[27] Initially, the crew scouted in Ireland, Scotland, Minnesota, Australia, Switzerland, and Canada in a search for a 2nd century worldbuilding with unpolluted sky and scenic forests.[14]Principal photography began on 25 September 2023 in New Zealand.[28] Filming was temporarily halted in late October after Manchu sustained an injury while performing a fight sequence, where the blades of a drone made contact with his arm.[29] In New Zealand, the film was shot in various locations across Auckland, Rotorua, Glenorchy, Wanaka, Pukaki, and Christchurch.[14] Reportedly, about 80 percent of the film will be shot in New Zealand.[30]Chinna is the art director, Sheldon Chau, of Mosagallu fame, is the cinematographer, dance choreographers are Prem Rakshith and Brinda, while the stunt choreography will be done by Kecha Khamphakdee.[31] The first schedule of filming for the movie was officially completed on December 23, 2023, in New Zealand, as announced by Dr. M. Mohan Babu, the film's producer, and the entire movie team.[32][33]
Music
Mani Sharma and Stephen Devassy has composed the original score and songs for the film.[34] The lyrical brilliance of Suddala Ashok Teja, Ramajogayya Sastry, and Bhaskarabhatla unfolds the poetic dimensions of Kannappa. Woven seamlessly into the film's fabric, their verses imbue the storytelling with profound depth and emotion, creating a poetic resonance that elevates the overall movie immersion.
Release
The film is aiming for a theatrical release worldwide in the third quarter of 2024, which would be dubbed in multiple Indian languages.[14]
