Vicky Kaushal Locks Dates for Mythological Epic ‘Mahavatar’

Vicky Kaushal is set to take on one of the most ambitious roles of his career, committing nearly 18 months exclusively to Mahavatar , where he will portray the fierce warrior-sage Parashurama.

The actor is expected to complete Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War by June 2026, after which he will begin preparations for the mythological epic. Directed by Amar Kaushik and backed by Maddock Films, the film will see Kaushal undergo extensive physical and character transformation starting mid-2026, with principal photography scheduled from January to December 2027 .

First-look posters have already generated buzz, showcasing Kaushal in a rugged avatar with long hair, a thick beard, and surrounded by fiery visuals, hinting at the intense portrayal of the axe-wielding avatar of Lord Vishnu. Industry insiders describe the project as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity, with the actor reportedly turning down multiple offers to fully dedicate himself to the film. The makers are aiming for a grand pan-India release, likely in 2028.

While this live-action Mahavatar is a Hombale Films venture, the broader mythological storytelling space has also seen parallel developments. Hombale Films previously backed the animated film Mahavatar Narsimha , which explored the story of Lord Narasimha and marked the beginning of a planned animated cinematic universe based on Vishnu’s avatars. The success and ambition of such projects reflect a growing trend of reimagining Indian mythology for modern audiences across formats.

With Mahavatar , Kaushal now steps into this expanding space, headlining a large-scale mythological spectacle that promises both visual grandeur and a powerful retelling of one of Hindu mythology’s most formidable figures.