The makers of the upcoming mythological epic Kannappa have issued a public advisory, cautioning against what they describe as “negativity and propaganda” targeting the film ahead of its theatrical release on June 27. In an official statement released via social media, the production house 24 Frames Factory stated, “The film represents the culmination of immense artistic dedication, untiring efforts, and substantial commercial investment and has received all possible certifications, intellectual protection and clearances for the said release.” They affirmed that Kannappa is a “lawful, legitimate, and creative enterprise.”
The advisory called for critics and the public to engage with the film constructively. “We respectfully request all critiques to watch the film first, appreciate its substance, understand the intent and comment on it with responsibility, rather than succumbing to premeditated biases or vendetta-fuelled commentary.”
Referring to recent court judgments, the statement emphasised that freedom of expression under Article 19(1)(a) does not extend to malicious attacks on creative works. The statement also highlighted that the Delhi High Court had granted personality and publicity rights protection to two key stakeholders of the film, Mohan Babu and Vishnu Manchu, implying that legal consequences might follow.
Kannappa, which is a period fantasy drama, is based on the epic mythological story of a Shiva devotee after the same name. Vishnu Manchu is also the screenwriter for the film. The period film has a massive star cast of Akshay Kumar, Mohan Lal, Sarath Kumar, Kajal Agarwal among others. Prabhas plays a cameo in the film as Rudra which has added significant hype for the film.
Kannappa is helmed by director Mukesh Kumar Singh. The epic project has cinematography by Seldon Chau and editing by Anthony Gonsalvez. The high-scale project is bankrolled by Mohan Babu, father of Manchu Vishnu, under the banners of 24 Frames Factory and AVA Entertainments. The film is slated for a pan-Indian release on June 27.
