‘Karikala’ — A grand collaboration between Sundeep Kishan, director Ugandhar Muni, and Shining Pictures — kicks off with a traditional ‘pooja’ ceremony!
‘Karikala,’ an ambitious pan-Indian socio-fantasy film starring the promising young actor Sundeep Kishan, has officially commenced with a grand, traditional ‘pooja’ ceremony attended by several prominent figures from the film industry. Directed by Ugandhar Muni and produced by Mahidhar Reddy and Rajasekhar Annabhimoju under the banner of Shining Pictures, the film is being mounted on a massive scale, blending elements of mythology, fantasy, adventure, and social themes. The film features Catherine Tresa, Sakshi Madolkar, and Gayathri Bharadwaj as the female leads.
Sathyavathi, mother of producer Rajasekhar, initiated the filming process by operating the camera, while Padma Reddy, mother of producer Mahidhar Reddy, performed the ceremonial ‘clap’ to mark the start. Actor Aadi Saikumar directed the first shot, and Veera Brahma Chari, father of producer Rajasekhar Annabhimoju, handed over the film’s screenplay to the production team. Speaking at the film’s launch ceremony, lead actor Sundeep Kishan said:
“I am truly delighted to be a part of the Karikala launch ceremony. Working alongside my long-time friend Sricharan Pakala on this project makes the occasion even more special. You may have already heard the film’s theme song; Sricharan has crafted an exceptional musical album for this movie, and I am fully confident that it will be very well-received by all of you.
This journey began when I extended my support to the film Shambala. Through that project, I was introduced to our producers, Rajasekhar garu and Mahender garu, as well as the director, Uganthar. When they narrated this grand story—which is set to unfold in two parts—I was immediately captivated. I am deeply inspired by the dedication of our team, and especially by the producers’ commitment to delivering a grand, period-based cinematic experience without ever compromising on the budget.
Over the past few years, I have portrayed a variety of characters. It is my passion for the craft that led me to choose films like Karikala and Power Pet. I genuinely believe that both these projects will stand out as some of the best in my career. My thanks to all our friends in the media for their constant support. I also extend a warm welcome to my co-stars, Sakshi and Gayatri, as well as my dear friend Catherine Tresa. Thank you all for your love and support!” Director Uganthar Muni stated:
“First and foremost, I would like to thank the producers for placing their trust in me. While our film ‘Shambala’ was an ambitious endeavor, ‘Karikala’ is a project of a much grander scale. My heartfelt thanks go to Sandeep garu for believing in me, and to our leading ladies—Sakshi, Gayathri, and Catherine—for joining this project. The faith they have placed in me brings a sense of nervous anticipation; I am fully aware of the responsibility, and I will do everything in my power to bring this vision to life effectively.
‘Karikala’ is a beautiful fairy tale, reminiscent of the enchanting stories found in Chandamama (classic children’s storybooks). The world we are creating is entirely unique, featuring kings, lions, magic, wolves, the realm of serpents (Nagalogam), and many other fascinating elements. Given the vast scope of the narrative, the story will be told in two parts. We are conducting the filming for both parts simultaneously, and both are scheduled for release next year.”
Producer Rajasekhar Annabimoju stated:
“Everyone extended tremendous support to our debut film, ‘Shambala.’ I hope for the same love and encouragement for ‘Karikala’ as well. I thank director Uganthar for bringing us such a distinct story, perfectly suited for this new era. We begin filming next week, and I am confident that the audience will enjoy this movie.
When the story was narrated to Sandeep, he loved it immediately and agreed to come on board. I also extend my gratitude to all the leading ladies who have joined our project.” Music composer Sricharan Pakala stated:
“I am extremely happy to be working on a film with such a unique premise. Sandeep attended the audio launch of my debut film, ‘Kiss,’ and now, I am collaborating with him on my 59th project.
This film offers a fantastic opportunity to incorporate songs and use music to transport the audience into an entirely new world. We have wonderful producers who are deeply passionate about cinema. Our director was previously working in the United States, but he left everything behind and returned to India to realize his dream of becoming a filmmaker. My journey with him began with the film ‘Shambala,’ and now, with ‘Karikala’…”
I am happy to continue this journey.”
Actress Sakshi Madolkar said:
“I absolutely love the world of ‘Karikala’ and its music. I consider it a great privilege to be a part of this film. Sundeep Kishan will be seen in a completely different look; he looks fantastic in the posters. I thank the director and the producers for placing their trust in me.
‘Karikala’ is a world filled with magic, valor, and courage. We have all gathered here to embark on this wonderful journey, and I request everyone’s support.”
Actress Gayatri Bhardwaj said:
“I am incredibly excited to be a part of this beautiful, grand film, a collaboration between Ugandhar and Shining Pictures. The team has poured their hard work and dedication into making this movie; pre-production has been underway for many months. The director has a grand vision for this project, and I truly believe it will be a remarkable piece of cinema that audiences must watch.
‘Karikala’ is set in a world of magic and mystery—a place that will transport us back to the realms we dreamed of as children. I play a princess from this magical world, and I am thrilled to bring this character to life.”
Actress Catherine Tresa said:
“I would like to thank all the guests and the film crew present here. It has been a long time since I felt this genuinely excited about a character. The entire credit for this goes to director Ugandhar. I deeply admire the effort he has put into crafting this new world.” I am confident that the fans will truly enjoy this film and that their wait will not have been in vain.
I am also delighted to be working with Sandeep. Our producers, who have come from America, bring a fresh, contemporary perspective and a deep passion for filmmaking. The announcement of the film’s title and the grand first-look poster have already generated immense anticipation among fans. In the poster, Sundeep Kishan appears in a striking, never-before-seen avatar as a formidable warrior.
‘Karikala’—a pan-Indian film being produced in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi—draws inspiration from the imaginative world of timeless folklore and fairy tales. The story explores a wondrous universe filled with wild creatures, mystical powers, ancient kingdoms, and forgotten legends. By blending the sense of awe and childhood nostalgia found in traditional fantasy tales with modern cinematic technology, the team aims to deliver an immersive theatrical experience to audiences across the country.
‘Karikala’ is being crafted as an epic saga spanning two chapters. The first part is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on July 2, 2027, followed by the second part on October 28, 2027. These back-to-back release dates reflect the team’s confidence in the film’s grand scale and its potential to captivate audiences across various linguistic regions.
Following the success of ‘Shambala’, director Ugandhar Muni has teamed up with the production house Shining Pictures to bring this even more ambitious project to life. Elaborate world-building, grand art direction, advanced visual effects, and large-scale production values will play a pivotal role in bringing this mythical realm to the screen. ‘Karikala’ distinguishes itself from conventional fantasy-adventure films… The film will also incorporate social elements that set it apart.
Renowned music composer Sricharan Pakala is scoring the music for the film. Further details regarding the rest of the cast, the technical crew, and the shooting schedule are expected to be officially announced in the coming days.
