Prabhas, Mohanlal Refuse Pay for Kannappa—Here’s Why It’s More Than Just a Gesture

Hyderabad: At a time when star salaries often dominate headlines, actors Prabhas and Mohanlal have chosen a different narrative—one that speaks volumes about their bond with the story, and their belief in the power of cinema over cheques.

According to sources close to the production of Kannappa, the two superstars willingly declined payment for their roles in the upcoming mythological epic. The film, spearheaded by Vishnu Manchu—who is both producing and playing the lead—has been in the making for over a year and is said to be one of Telugu cinema’s most ambitious projects to date.

"It’s Not About the Money"

While industry watchers are accustomed to hearing about multi-crore deals and backend profit shares, Prabhas and Mohanlal’s decision to act for free underscores a rare value: respect and shared vision.

“Sometimes, stories choose you,” a source from the crew shared. “Both actors were deeply moved by the narrative and Vishnu’s passion. They didn’t want compensation—they wanted to contribute to something meaningful.”

A Mythological Epic in the Making

Kannappa tells the story of a devout Shiva bhakt whose sacrifice and loyalty are immortalized in temple lore. With a reported budget exceeding ₹200 crore, the film blends spiritual depth with grand cinematic scale. International VFX teams, renowned costume designers, and a pan-India cast are part of the vision.

Prabhas, currently one of India’s most bankable stars, has a history of backing mythological and spiritual content—from Baahubali to Adipurush. Mohanlal, on the other hand, is celebrated for choosing roles with emotional and philosophical weight. Their involvement—without monetary compensation—adds a layer of soul to the project that money can’t buy.

More Than Just Star Power

Industry insiders believe this move could set a precedent. “It’s a throwback to the older days of Indian cinema, where actors came together out of love for the art and the message,” said a South film trade analyst. “It’s refreshing to see in today’s hyper-commercial climate.”

With the film slated for a grand release in June 2025, Kannappa is already turning heads—not just for its scale, but for the sincerity behind it.