Myth, Magic, and Ancient Lore: Sundeep Kishan’s Two-Part Pan-Indian Socio-Fantasy Spectacle ‘Karikaala’ Launched with Grand Pooja
Stepping into an expansive fantasy universe, versatile hero Sundeep Kishan has formally kickstarted his most ambitious cinematic venture to date, titled ‘Karikaala’. Helmed by director Ugandhar Muni and produced on a lavish scale by Mahidhar Reddy and Rajashekhar Annabhimoju under the Shining Pictures banner, the multilingual socio-fantasy spectacle was launched today in Hyderabad amidst industry dignitaries and well-wishers.
The project features a stellar leading ensemble with Catherine Tresa, Sakkshi Mhadolkar, and Gayatri Bhardwaj starring as the female leads.
The ceremonial launch was steeped in familial blessings: Sathyavati garu (mother of producer Rajashekhar) switched on the camera, while Padma Reddy garu (mother of producer Mahidhar Reddy) sounded the honorary clapboard. Prominent actor Aadi Saikumar stepped up to direct the first ceremonial shot, and the bound script was officially handed over by Veera Brahma Chari garu (father of producer Rajashekhar).
"An Epic Two-Part Tale Driven by Pure Artistic Passion" — Sundeep Kishan
Addressing the gathering, an elated Sundeep Kishan highlighted his artistic excitement and deep bond with the technicians:
*"Karikaala is an extraordinary milestone for me, especially as I collaborate with my longtime friend Sricharan Pakala on what is already shaping up to be a sensational musical album.
My bond with this team began when I supported Shambhala, which introduced me to our passionate producers, Rajasekhar garu and Mahidhar garu, alongside director Ugandhar. The moment they narrated this sprawling two-part fantasy saga, I was completely hooked. Our producers have backed the vision without compromising a single rupee on scale. Alongside Power Pet, Karikaala stands as a project chosen purely out of artistic conviction. It is destined to be a defining highlight of my filmography."*
A Fairy Tale of Kings, Wolves, and the Mystical Naga Lokam
Unfolding the thematic canvas of the venture, director Ugandhar Muni described the project as a cinematic return to the golden age of indigenous folklore:
*"Karikaala is rooted in the timeless magic of Chandamama stories. We are building an uncharted mythical world filled with ancient kings, lions, sorcery, dire wolves, and the mystical realms of Naga Lokam.
Because this lore spans a massive narrative expanse, we have designed it as a two-chapter cinematic saga. Both parts are being filmed simultaneously, mounted with rich visual effects and elaborate period architecture."*
Producer Rajashekhar Annabhimoju expressed gratitude for the reception to their maiden venture Shambhala, adding that regular filming for Karikaala commences next week.
Three Dynamic Leading Ladies Enter the Mythic Realm
The three leading actresses expressed their delight at stepping into a world rooted in grandeur:
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Catherine Tresa noted that the layered depth and unique visual texture designed by Ugandhar made her instantly say yes, praising the US-based producers for their bold storytelling sensibilities.
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Gayatri Bhardwaj revealed that she portrays an ethereal princess from this enchanted realm, a role she described as fulfilling childhood fantasies of grand storybook universes.
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Sakkshi Mhadolkar praised Sundeep Kishan’s fierce warrior avatar in the promotional artwork and described the project as an exhilarating tale of bravery, devotion, and courage.
Sricharan Pakala Marks His 59th Musical Outing
Celebrated composer Sricharan Pakala, who collaborates with Sundeep for the first time on a feature after attending his own debut audio launch years ago, shared:
"This marks my 59th film as a music composer, and it offers unmatched creative scope. Ugandhar left behind an established business career in the USA driven solely by his obsession with storytelling. The music of Karikaala will act as an emotional bridge, transporting audiences into a forgotten mythical era."
Ambitious Two-Chapter Pan-Indian Release Blueprint
Crafted in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi, the period adventure blends classic fantasy tropes with cutting-edge visual effects, massive creature animations, and grounded socio-cultural elements.
Demonstrating the makers' absolute confidence in the simultaneous production pipeline:
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Karikaala Chapter 1 is slated for a worldwide theatrical premiere on July 2, 2027.
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Karikaala Chapter 2 will follow shortly after, hitting cinemas worldwide on October 28, 2027.
With regular shooting rolling out next week, Karikaala promises to deliver an immersive big-screen mythological fiesta that celebrates the timeless spirit of Indian fantasy storytelling.
