South superstar Allu Arjun has officially kickstarted his highly anticipated 22nd movie—the first collaboration with acclaimed director Atlee. The much-hyped project, currently under its working title AA22xA6, commenced principal photography in Mumbai on June 12, 2025, marked by a traditional pooja ceremony to bless the shoot.
First Look: Mrunal Thakur on Board
The first shooting schedule already features Mrunal Thakur, who has joined the set ahead of the speculated inclusion of Bollywood A-lister Deepika Padukone. Her presence alongside Arjun has sparked early excitement among fans. Deepika’s schedule remains under wraps, but she’s expected to bring star power later in the shoot.
What We Know About the Film
- Genre & Scale: Reportedly a sci-fi action spectacle shot in Telugu—Atlee’s first film in the language—backed by Sun Pictures with a budget north of ₹600 crore.
- Cast: Features Allu Arjun in a dual role, with leading ladies including Mrunal Thakur, Janhvi Kapoor, and Deepika Padukone .
- Script Updates: Earlier reincarnation and multiple-hero elements reportedly scrapped; now design focuses on VFX-heavy, universe-driven storytelling centered on Arjun’s characters.
- Shooting Phase: Started June 12 in Mumbai. Earlier pre-production saw Atlee and Arjun collaborating on story and visuals in Dubai for weeks.
- Future Timeline: With 210 filming days planned, the mega-film is shaping up as one of India’s biggest cinematic events. A 2027 release is expected.
Stakes & Stardom
Following the massive success of *Pushpa 2*, Allu Arjun reportedly secured ₹175 crore plus 15% of the film’s profits—making him India’s top-paid actor. With Atlee’s pan-India storytelling from *Jawan* and Arjun’s global fanbase, expectations are sky-high.
Why This Film Matters
- Cross-industry Fusion: Blends South and Bollywood with Deepika’s addition and Mrunal’s rising presence.
- Massive Scale: One of the most expensive Indian films ever, marrying high-end VFX with epic action drama.
- Gamechanger for Arjun: A chance beyond *Pushpa*, cementing him as an actor capable of steady pan-India impact.
Final Thoughts from Barefoot Monk
The onset of AA22xA6 marks a new cinematic frontier: South meets pan-India blockbuster scale. With Allu Arjun’s star power, Atlee’s directorial flair, and a powerhouse cast—this could be the next-gen spectacle Indian cinema demands. Stay tuned to Barefoot Monk for BTS insights, casting reveals, VFX updates, and everything around this highly anticipated venture.
