Akshaye Khanna is once again grabbing attention with a powerful new character. The first glimpse of Mahakali has been released, and the actor appears in a striking avatar as Shukracharya, the revered guru of the Asuras. His intense screen presence and commanding performance have already become one of the biggest talking points of the promo.

Akshaye Khanna turns into Shukracharya

The glimpse, titled "Shukracharya's War Cry," introduces Akshaye Khanna as an imposing and mysterious Shukracharya. His appearance, expressions and powerful dialogue delivery give the character a menacing presence.

The promo establishes Shukracharya at the centre of an approaching conflict between Dharma and Adharma. Rather than presenting the story as a straightforward battle between good and evil, the glimpse suggests a much larger confrontation involving the Devas, Asuras and humanity.

A completely different avatar for Akshaye

After receiving considerable attention for his recent performances, Akshaye Khanna is taking on a dramatically different role in Mahakali.

As Shukracharya, he appears in an ascetic-inspired look, with a stern expression and an authoritative personality. The first glimpse focuses heavily on his character, making it clear that he will play a crucial role in the film's larger conflict.

What is the story of Mahakali?

Mahakali is being developed as a mythological superhero film and forms part of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe, which began with Hanu-Man.

Bhoomi Shetty plays the titular Mahakali, while the story draws heavily from Indian mythology and spirituality. The film is set against a backdrop connected to Bengal and its association with Goddess Kali.

The glimpse suggests that the story will explore the battle between opposing forces while introducing a larger mythological world.

Bhoomi Shetty's Mahakali avatar gets a glimpse

Although Akshaye Khanna dominates much of the first promo, the closing moments also offer a glimpse of Bhoomi Shetty as Mahakali.

Her appearance at the end of the video hints that the character will eventually become central to the conflict established by Shukracharya. The glimpse ends on a dramatic note, building anticipation for the full film.

When will Mahakali release?

The makers have announced that Mahakali will reach cinemas worldwide on January 8, 2027. The film is being planned as a large-scale theatrical spectacle and is expected to expand the mythology-based universe created by Prasanth Varma.

For now, Akshaye Khanna's Shukracharya has clearly stolen the spotlight. The first glimpse has introduced a character who appears powerful, unpredictable and central to the film's biggest question: where does the line between Dharma and Adharma really lie?