Vishnu Manchu spills the beans casting Mohanlal, Prabhas and Akshay Kumar in 'Kannappa': 'They accepted it because of...'

With the big release of 'Kannappa' on June 27, 2025, actor-producer Vishnu Manchu is not only walking into the shoes of the mythical hero but also into the role of an innovative filmmaker.

The movie is filled with visual splendor and star power and has special appearances by Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, and Prabhas. But far from expecting that uniting such big guns was the biggest challenge, Vishnu Manchu disagrees.In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, Manchu clarified what transpired behind the scenes, particularly when it came to bringing this dream cast together and navigating the technicality of it all.Speaking about approaching industry heavyweights for cameo roles, Vishnu revealed that it all came down to longstanding relationships and mutual respect. “Honestly, it wasn’t difficult at all,” he said. “I just reached out and because of our bond, they agreed. Even Akshay sir once the script was narrated the right way was immediately on board.”To Manchu, it was less chasing stars and more about partnering the right way at the right time.

Both trust and the compelling story that Kannappa offers were the reasons for their willingness.VFX was the actual challengeWhile the casting was as smooth as clockwork, Manchu conceded that the post-production and particularly the visual effects, was the biggest challenge. "If there was one thing that really pushed me to my limits it was VFX," he revealed in the Pinkvilla interview.Despite having started a VFX firm in 2002 after coming back to India from the U.S.,

Manchu modestly revealed how the changing technology scenario had left him behind. "It was a wake-up call," he revealed. "I realized how much I need to catch up.No longer willing to leave a gap in that field, Manchu who is also the Pro-Chancellor of Mohan Babu University said that the university will introduce a specialized three-year VFX degree shortly. "We're already at the forefront of AI education," he said, "and now I want to groom the country's best VFX makers within the next five years."Akshay teases 'Professor Vishnu' as learning continuesAkshay Kumar, always the prankster on the set affectionately called him "Professor Vishnu" when Manchu revealed his academic aspirations. Vishnu smiled good naturedly, declaring the experience a very personal learning curve, one which he's grateful to continue ascending.