Raghava Lawrence drops the first look of his character in five-language epic Mahaveer Karna

Raghava Lawrence (Picture via Instagram)

Raghava Lawrence is set to step into the world of Indian mythology with his upcoming film Mahaveer Karna, in which he will portray the legendary warrior Karna. The makers unveiled the actor's first look from the film on Tuesday, September 22, giving audiences their first glimpse of his transformation for the ambitious project.

Raghava Lawrence turns to mythology

The film, directed by Ramesh Varma, is being mounted on a reported budget of Rs 150 crore (as reported by India Today). Produced by Jayantilal Gada's Pen Movies in association with RV Studios and Sri Neeladri Productions, the project is planned as a five-language epic. It will be released in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi and Kannada, with a worldwide release planned for 2027.

Pen Movies shared Lawrence's first look on social media with the tagline, 'A Face. A Legend. A Warrior.' The production house also described the film as an epic live-action saga and highlighted that Lawrence will be making his first foray into mythology with the project.

For Lawrence, the role marks a departure from the commercial entertainers and action-oriented films he has predominantly been associated with. Karna, one of the central characters in the Mahabharata, is known for his courage, generosity, loyalty and sacrifice, while his life is shaped by questions of identity, rejection and destiny.

All about Mahaveer Karna

Sharing the first look, Lawrence expressed his gratitude at being offered the part. The actor said he was "truly happy and blessed" to portray one of the most legendary characters from Indian mythology. He also thanked Varma for bringing the script to him and said he was taking on the journey with gratitude and humility.

The makers are reportedly planning an expansive visual world for the film, with specially constructed sets, elaborate period designs, large-scale battle sequences and extensive visual effects. The production is expected to recreate the kingdoms, battlefields and other environments associated with Karna's story on a grand scale.

Varma, who has previously helmed films including Rakshasudu and Khiladi, is directing the project. The makers are expected to announce the remaining cast and crew members in the coming days.

With Lawrence taking on the titular role, Mahaveer Karna aims to bring the warrior's story to the big screen as a large-scale multilingual mythological spectacle.