Vishnu Manchu Talks ‘Kannappa’, Star-Studded Cast, and the Real Challenge Behind the Scenes

In the run-up to the much-anticipated release of Kannappa, Vishnu Manchu is stepping into not just the titular role of the mythic hero but also into a bold new phase of his filmmaking career. With Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, and Prabhas making high-voltage special appearances, many assumed the biggest challenge would have been uniting such cinematic powerhouses. But according to Manchu, that part was surprisingly effortless.

In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, Vishnu revealed, “Honestly, it wasn’t difficult at all. I just reached out, and because of our bond, they agreed. Akshay sir, once the script was narrated properly, came on board immediately.” For him, it was never about chasing stars, but about timing, mutual respect, and a powerful narrative that resonated with everyone involved.

While casting fell into place with ease, it was VFX that nearly brought the production to its knees. “If there was one thing that really pushed me to my limits, it was VFX,” Vishnu admitted. Despite having started a VFX firm back in 2002 after returning from the U.S., the rapid evolution of technology caught him off-guard. “It was a wake-up call,” he said, “I realized I had to catch up.”

Determined not to lag behind again, Manchu is channeling that realization into education. As the Pro-Chancellor of Mohan Babu University, he announced the launch of a 3-year VFX degree program, aiming to groom India’s next generation of VFX professionals. “We’re already leading in AI education. VFX is next.”

On set, even Akshay Kumar couldn’t resist poking fun at Vishnu’s academic pursuits, nicknaming him “Professor Vishnu.” Manchu laughs off the tease but admits the journey has been one of immense personal growth—both on and off camera.

With Kannappa, Vishnu Manchu isn’t just offering audiences a mythological spectacle—he’s ushering in a new era of technically driven Indian cinema, and he’s taking everyone along for the ride.