Hyderabad: Actor-producer Manchu Vishnu’s dream project *Kannappa* is set for a global theatrical release on June 27. Ahead of its debut, the mythological action-drama has cleared the censor process with a U/A certification after incorporating 13 mandated cuts.
A revision committee comprising 11 members under the Central Board of Film Certification reviewed the film and recommended the removal of 13 scenes, including a few dialogues delivered by actor Brahmanandam. The regional censor officer clarified that certification would only be granted after these deletions. Following the changes, the final approved runtime of the film now stands at 3 hours and 2 minutes.
The film has courted controversy in recent days, with Brahmin community groups objecting to certain characters and scenes they claim denigrate their customs and traditions. Sources indicate these concerns played a role in the censor board’s decision to suggest specific cuts.
Despite the friction, promotional activity for the film continues. Manchu Vishnu announced via X (formerly Twitter) that advance bookings will begin on Wednesday.
Directed by Bollywood filmmaker Mukesh Singh, Kannappa features an ensemble cast including Prabhas, Mohanlal, Mohan Babu, Sarath Kumar, Kajal Aggarwal, and Akshay Kumar. Prabhas is expected to appear in a special role with a reported screen time of approximately 30 minutes.