The Telugu film industry is abuzz with excitement as megastar Chiranjeevi, while gearing up for the release of his family entertainer 'Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu', is already laying the groundwork for his next cinematic venture. The project, tentatively titled 'Mega158', is generating significant pre-launch chatter, especially around its potential star-studded collaborations and revised timeline.
Revised Launch and Shooting Schedule for Mega158
According to industry reports, the official launch event for 'Mega158' is now scheduled for February 2026. This marks a shift from the initial plan, which aimed for a January 18 launch. The change in date is attributed to Chiranjeevi's recent knee surgery and the subsequent recovery period, making the later timeline more comfortable for the entire team. Following the launch, the principal photography for the film is expected to commence in March 2026.
This project will see Chiranjeevi reuniting with director Bobby Kolli, with whom he previously collaborated on the blockbuster 'Waltair Veerayya'. Early indications suggest that 'Mega158' will be a high-octane gangster action drama, promising to deliver the kind of mass appeal that both the star and director are known for.
Star-Studded Rumours: AR Rahman's Music and Mohanlal's Role?
The buzz around 'Mega158' extends beyond its director and star. There is strong speculation in musical circles that the legendary Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman might be roped in to score the film's music. Reports suggest Rahman could take on the project after completing his current commitments for Ram Charan's 'Peddi'. However, this remains in the realm of speculation, and no official confirmation has been provided by the makers yet.
Adding to the excitement are persistent rumours that Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal might play a pivotal role in the narrative. If this casting comes to fruition, it would mark a historic first-time on-screen collaboration between the two legendary actors, Chiranjeevi and Mohanlal, sending fans across South India into a frenzy. The production team is currently keeping most details about the cast tightly under wraps.
Chiranjeevi's Current Line-Up: What's Releasing First
Before 'Mega158' goes on floors, audiences will see Chiranjeevi in the much-anticipated film 'Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu', directed by Anil Ravipudi. Touted as a full-fledged family entertainer, the film features Nayanthara as the female lead, with Venkatesh Daggubati making a special cameo appearance.
In this movie, Chiranjeevi portrays a former officer of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), while Nayanthara plays Sasirekha, a character from an affluent background. The film is locked for a worldwide release on January 12, 2026. Furthermore, the megastar has also committed to a future project with 'The Paradise' director Srikanth Odela, keeping his slate packed for the coming years.
With a confirmed launch window for 'Mega158' and tantalising rumours about its crew and cast, Chiranjeevi continues to strategically chart his course in Tollywood, promising his legion of fans a powerful mix of action-packed drama and potential cinematic history in the making.
