Prabhas Fan Expresses Disappointment Over Vishnu Manchu’s Kannappa

Kannappa, the much-anticipated mythological film directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and starring Vishnu Manchu, released in theatres on Friday to mixed reviews. While the second half of the film received appreciation on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the first half drew criticism from several viewers.

Among the most vocal critics was a disappointed fan of actor Prabhas, who expressed his frustration in a video shared by IndiaGlitz. The fan was upset that the film did not resemble the 1976 classic Bhakta Kannappa, which featured Prabhas’ uncle, Krishnam Raju, in the lead role.

“I will file a case against him (Vishnu) for giving false information. What did he say in the press? Where is Shiva in the first half? I am a Prabhas fan, and I came here after watching the Bhakta Kannappa movie,” he said.

He further claimed that Vishnu Manchu had deviated from the essence of the original story, despite promoting the film as a spiritual successor. “His family gave you the rights to make this film. If it’s your dream project, you can’t change the film however you want. He gave false information in the trailer and in the press. When you promoted the movie as Bhakta Kannappa, why are you showing your heroism? Show the devotion instead. We came for Prabhas and watched him for 20 minutes in the second half; that’s enough.”

While the fan's comments gained traction online, others took a more balanced view. A viewer in the same video clip defended the film, noting that it was clearly presented as a fictional adaptation. One user commented, “Babu disclaimer chudakunda cinema ni elaa tappu battaali ane pani lo unnattunnaadu!! @themohanbabu antha base voice lo cheppaaru ga, Bhakta Kannappa story ni research chesi dani aadharam tho rasukunna kalpitha kadha ani.”

Kannappa is a mythological drama inspired by the legendary devotee of Lord Shiva. The film features an ensemble cast including Vishnu Manchu, Akshay Kumar, Prabhas, Mohanlal, Kajal Aggarwal, Sarathkumar, and Mohan Babu. Prabhas plays Rudhra, Akshay Kumar portrays Lord Shiva, and Vishnu Manchu takes on the titular role.

The film, described as a dream project by Vishnu, had reportedly been in development for over a decade.