Akshaye Khanna looks unrecognisable as Shukracharya in Mahakali; fans compare him to Amitabh Bachchan in Kalki 2898 AD

The actor appears unrecognisable in the role of Asuraguru Shukracharya. With long flowing hair and a heavy beard, Akshaye's appearance is mysterious, a far cry from his usual refined persona.

The first look of Akshaye Khanna from Mahakali, the next chapter in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU), has created a storm on social media.

The actor appears unrecognisable in the role of Asuraguru Shukracharya. With long flowing hair and a heavy beard, Akshaye's appearance is mysterious, a far cry from his usual refined persona.

Prasanth Varma, who has been steadily building his superhero-driven cinematic universe, unveiled the poster with the caption: “In the shadows of gods, rose the brightest flame of rebellion. Presenting The Enigmatic #AkshayeKhanna as the eternal ‘Asuraguru SHUKRACHARYA’ from #Mahakali.”

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The poster shows Akshaye standing against the backdrop of a massive stone fortress. His attire, a flowing robe, complements his sage-like appearance, while a silver gleam in one eye hints at his supernatural power.

However, fans were quick to notice the uncanny resemblance between Akshaye Khanna’s Shukracharya and Amitabh Bachchan’s Ashwatthama in Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD. The similarities in costume design, long hair, and overall mystic persona fueled a wave of online comparisons. Social media comment sections were flooded with humorous reactions, with one user writing, “Amitabh Bachchan 40% downloaded,” while another quipped, “We have Ashwatthama at home.”

Also read: Akshaye Khanna joins Mahakali, makes Telugu debut with PVCU, to play Shukracharya

Many also praised Akshaye Khanna for taking on such an unconventional role and lauded Prasanth Varma for consistently pushing visual boundaries in Indian cinema.

Mahakali marks the directorial debut of Puja Aparna Kolluru and is being bankrolled by RKD Studios. Prasanth Varma is both the creator and co-writer. The film is currently in production and will feature music by Smaran Sai and cinematography by Suresh Ragutu. Additional cast members and release details are expected to be announced soon.