Prabhas returns as Bhairava in Kalki 2898 AD sequel; makers drop first look on actor's birthday

Prabhas pic via Instagram

Tollywood star Prabhas turned 47 on October 23, with birthday wishes pouring in from fans worldwide and filmmakers he has worked with. Among them was director Nag Ashwin, who helmed the actor's 2024 sci-fi film Kalki 2898 AD. Marking the occasion, Ashwin surprised fans with a glimpse of Prabhas returning to the franchise as the bounty hunter Bhairava, while extending his birthday wishes to the actor.

On Prabhas' birthday, the team of Kalki 2898 AD shared a video to celebrate the actor. The caption read, "To the superhero of Indian Cinema…Happy Birthday to the Darling of every generation, Rebel Star #Prabhas. We are excited to embark on another epic cinematic journey with you…#Kalki2898AD."

Kalki 2898 AD Sequel makers drop first look video on Prabhas' birthday

The 32-second clip captures the crew setting up a blue-screen stage for Bhairava's return. As 'Bhairava is back' appears on screen, Prabhas walks onto the specially constructed set. He then gets into his vechile, Bujji, with director Nag Ashwin calling 'action' to begin the shoot.

The promotional video does not unveil Prabhas' whole look yet, offering only a silhouette of the actor standing atop an elevated structure. As the words ‘Happy Birthday Bhairava' appear on the screen, viewers get a closer look at the bounty hunter's appearance. With long hair and a beard, Prabhas is ready to step back into the role.

Soon after the makers unveiled the video, Prabhas fans couldn't stop gushing. One fan wrote, "The biggest superstar is back, can't wait" Another fan commented, "Look at his aura. Others were seen dropping fire and heart emojis.

Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan have also reportedly resumed shooting for the Kalki 2898 AD sequel. Deepika Padukone, who starred as SUM-80, also known as Sumathi, is no longer associated with the project. Sai Pallavi and Alia Bhatt were speculated to be part of the film amid speculation about Deepika's replacement and potential new characters. However, director Nag Ashwin later revealed that no new characters were being introduced.

The highly anticipated sci-fi mythological sequel to the 2024 blockbuster Kalki 2898 AD is speculated to hit theatres in 2027.