Aadi Saikumar, who recently headlined the action thriller Shanmukha, has a fantasy thriller in the pipeline, titled Shambhala: A Mystical World. On Tuesday, the makers released a new character poster featuring Shiva Karthik, welcoming the actor to the film’s leading cast.

Shiva Karthik will be seen playing Balu, a character engulfed in mystery. The new poster features him holding a flambeau, giving an intense gaze. The mysterious aura is enhanced by the eerie presence of a scarecrow in the background. Meanwhile, Aadi will be seen playing a geo-scientist on a mystical journey that transcends time. Additionally, the film features Archana Iyer, Swasika, Anandhi, and Ravi Varma in key roles. The film’s music is composed by Sriram Madduri.

Directed by Ugandhar Muni and produced by Rajasekhar Annabhimoju and Mahidhar Reddy under Shining Pictures, Shambhala is billed as a high-budget supernatural thriller. The film is the first production venture from Shining Pictures, and will reportedly unfold across three distinct timelines — in the year 1980, 1,000 years ago, and a staggering 10,000 years in the past — blending mythology, history, and the supernatural.

Earlier in April, the team had released a BTS making video from the sets, offering a brief glimpse into the film’s expansive scale and production design.  A release date for the film is yet to be announced. 

Shiva Karthik has earlier appeared in films like Thandel and Daaku Maharaaj this year.