Following the incredible success of HanuMan, which earned around ₹350 crore worldwide, Prasanth Varma has created something truly unique—the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). This cinematic universe stands apart by rooting itself deeply in Indian mythology, focusing on gods, magic, and legends, offering a fresh alternative to the usual Western-style superhero stories. Varma’s vision is clear: he wants to move beyond directing and take on the role of a showrunner for this expansive project. His goal is to provide a consistent, high-quality experience with a clear theme and interconnected stories. The foundation of the PVCU is based on the Sapta Chiranjeevi, the seven immortals of Indian lore, which forms a solid and exciting framework for introducing new heroes, each with unique powers inspired by mythology.
The Phase I Slate: Four Major Films Unveiled
Prasanth Varma’s universe kicks off with four key films lined up, each contributing to the growth of the universe and aimed at a wide audience.
1. Jai Hanuman: The Epic Continuation
Jai Hanuman is the much-anticipated sequel to HanuMan. It will shift focus directly onto Lord Hanuman, one of the most beloved figures in Hindu mythology. This film promises even grander scale and spectacle. Casting News: Rishab Shetty, the acclaimed actor known for Kantara, will play the role of Lord Hanuman. Continuity: Teja Sajja, who starred in HanuMan, will return as Hanumanthu, but now in a significant supporting role. Production Notes: Due to the intense pre-production, visual effects, and storyboarding requirements, the film’s release has been pushed to 2026 or 2027. Varma aims to bring legends like Chiranjeevi or Mahesh Babu onboard for crucial roles.
2. Adhira: The Electrifying New Hero
Directed by Sharan Koppishetty with story by Prasanth Varma, Adhira introduces a new superhero powered by electricity. The story centers on defending Dharma against encroaching darkness. Lead Role: Kalyan Dasari, son of producer D.V.V. Danayya, makes his acting debut here as the main hero. Antagonist: S.J. Suryah plays the key villain, setting up an exciting hero-villain dynamic.
3. Mahakali: The Progressive Female Superhero
Mahakali stands out as the universe’s first female superhero film, emphasizing social consciousness. Directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru, it celebrates the power of Goddess Kali and focuses on inclusive and ethical casting—prohibiting the use of makeup to alter skin tone. Noteworthy Cast: Akshaye Khanna plays the pivotal villain ‘Asuraguru Shukracharya,’ a recurring cosmic threat within the PVCU saga. Setting: The film is set in West Bengal, promising a fresh regional flavor to the mythology-based cinema.
4. Untitled Film Featuring Nandamuri Mokshagna Teja: The Mahabharata Link
This socio-fantasy film, directed by Prasanth Varma himself, is inspired by the epic Mahabharata and serves as a launchpad for Nandamuri Balakrishna’s son, Mokshagna Teja. It is expected to enter production and release around September 2025.
Mega-Projects & The Superstar Factor
Beyond the confirmed lineup, the universe has the buzz-worthy potential inclusion of Rebel Star Prabhas in a project tentatively titled Brahma Rakshasa. Prasanth Varma has confirmed that this project is active and only awaits Prabhas’s availability. This collaboration could elevate the PVCU to compete with the largest global franchises, but scheduling remains a challenge.
Institutionalizing the Universe: A Global Talent Hunt
To maintain the quality and streamline the expansion, Varma is actively recruiting global talent including writers, editors, graphic designers, and marketers. This will solidify the PVCU infrastructure, transforming it from a series of films to an enduring cultural phenomenon.
Why PVCU is a Game-Changer in Indian Cinema
Prasanth Varma’s universe taps into India’s rich mythological heritage with a modern, cinematic flair. It steps back from tired Western superhero conventions and instead offers stories rooted in Indian legends—characters imbued with supernatural powers tied to ancient lore. The Sapta Chiranjeevi framework ensures each hero has a unique identity and narrative, promising fresh storytelling that respects cultural depth. Unlike typical films, PVCU movies aim for “Hollywood-caliber” production values, combining elaborate visuals, sophisticated VFX, and grand narratives. This approach not only appeals to Indian audiences but has the power to attract a global audience fascinated by mythology and superhero epics.
What to Expect From Upcoming PVCU Films
Jaw-dropping special effects combined with faithful mythological storytelling Deeply interconnected stories forming a larger universe Diverse heroes, including the first female Indian superhero in Mahakali Veteran stars joining to boost the scale and impact Regional flavors brought to pan-Indian and global screens
Where to Follow the PVCU Journey
Stay updated on the latest in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe by following official channels:
