- The teaser of Mahakali, directed by Prasanth Varma, was released on Monday
- Akshaye Khanna's transformation as Shukracharya features a silver beard and fierce eyes
- The film is based on the Samudra Manthan myth and the conflict between Devas and Asuras
The much-awaited teaser of Mahakali is finally out, giving audiences a glimpse into the visual world of Prasanth Varma's upcoming film. While the teaser has caught attention for its intense presentation and powerful characters, it is Akshaye Khanna's striking transformation as Shukracharya that has particularly stood out.
The actor appears almost unrecognisable in the new avatar, leaving the internet impressed with his dramatic look and screen presence.
Released on Monday, the teaser draws from the mythological tale of Samudra Manthan. It shows how both the Devas and Asuras came together to churn the cosmic ocean, but the nectar ultimately went to the Devas. The glimpse also hints at the larger conflict surrounding the Asuras and why they were denied their claim to Indra's throne and eventually banished to the underworld.
These questions are explored through Shukracharya, the revered Guru of the Asuras, portrayed by Akshaye Khanna. The actor has undergone a striking transformation for the role. He is seen sporting a silver-white beard and thick moustache that mask his face. His intense expressions and commanding presence in the teaser have further added to the intrigue around his character. Several viewers have praised his avatar on social media.
One user wrote, "#MAHAKALI Shukracharya's War Cry! That look. That intensity. That screen presence. Akshaye Khanna doesn't need to shout to command attention, his eyes do the talking. This is going to be a performance to watch out for."
Another added, "Akshaye Khanna can literally play anything. Just saw his Shukracharya look in Ramayana and I genuinely can't think of another actor who could go from the menace of Dhurandhar to this so effortlessly."
Someone else commented, "What a chameleon of an actor #AkshayeKhanna is... And his choices of films & roles are now complementing his talent. The first glimpse of #MahakaliShukracharyasWarCry is immensely gripping. From narration about #Asuras to the stunning visuals, everything grabs your attention pronto."
"Akshaye Khanna as Shukracharya is unrecognizable — silver beard, fierce eyes, pure menace. The "war cry" energy hits hard, scale looks massive, and that Maa Kali glimpse at the end? Chills. PVCU just leveled up," remarked a user.
Mahakali serves as the latest instalment in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe after Hanu-Man. The film is positioned as India's first female-led superhero movie, led by Bhoomi Shetty as the titular character Maha.
The supporting cast also features an impressive lineup, including Rohit Saraf, Sriya Reddy, Rakesh Bedi, Samuthirakani, Rajat Kapoor, Murali Sharma, and Nassar.
Mahakali releases in theatres on January 8, 2027.