Chiranjeevi's Mega158 hits 40 shooting days, first-half edit locked
Synopsis
Chiranjeevi's much-anticipated #Mega158 has crossed a key production milestone — 40 days of shooting done and the first-half edit locked, with sources describing the interval action block as a standout set piece. With a Sankranthi 2027 target and a crew that includes Thaman and Vijay Karthik Kannan, the Chiranjeevi-Bobby Kolli reunion is building serious momentum.
Key Takeaways
Mega158 has completed 40 days of shooting and locked the first-half edit, according to sources close to the production.
The film's interval block features a grand-scale action sequence described as a major attraction.
Anaswara Rajan and Nivetha Pethuraj play pivotal roles; music by Thaman , cinematography by Vijay Karthik Kannan .
The second schedule began in Hyderabad on 22 June , following the first schedule in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu .
The film is targeting a Sankranthi 2027 release and is produced by Venkat K Narayana under KVN Productions .
This is the second collaboration between Chiranjeevi and director Bobby Kolli , after Waltair Veerayya .
Megastar Chiranjeevi's upcoming Telugu film #Mega158, directed by Bobby Kolli and produced by KVN Productions, has completed 40 days of shooting and locked the edit of its first half, according to sources close to the production. The film, targeting a Sankranthi 2027 release, is shaping up as one of the most anticipated Telugu outings of next year.
Interval Block Sets the Tone
Sources reveal that the first half concludes with a high-octane action sequence designed and executed on a grand scale. This interval fight block, reportedly shot recently, is expected to serve as a powerful high point heading into the second half. According to those familiar with the production, the initial output has given the team considerable confidence, with the narrative balancing intensity, entertainment, emotion, and action in equal measure.
Shoot Progress and Schedule Updates
The film's second schedule commenced in Hyderabad on 22 June this year, following the wrap of the first schedule in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu. KVN Productions announced the Hyderabad schedule on X, describing the production as progressing 'at a blazing pace' and tagging the project with the phrase 'The Bloody Benchmark.' Director Bobby Kolli had earlier posted on X that the Pollachi schedule yielded 'some spectacular moments that are shaping up beautifully.'
Cast and Crew
Anaswara Rajan and Nivetha Pethuraj play pivotal roles alongside Chiranjeevi. Music is being scored by Thaman, while Vijay Karthik Kannan — known for his work on Jailer, Daaku Maharaj, and the upcoming Jailer 2 — handles cinematography. Art direction is by Kolla Avinash and editing by Antony Ruben. The film is produced by Venkat K Narayana under the KVN Productions banner.
Background and Build-Up
The project was first announced on Chiranjeevi's birthday last year and formally launched on 21 May this year. In the lead-up to the shoot, Chiranjeevi shared a gym workout video on X, writing: 'Every day is another opportunity to push beyond limits… Charged up and excited for another memorable journey with my dear @dirbobby for #Mega158.' The makers' announcement poster — featuring an axe splitting a wall with traces of blood — carried the tagline 'The blade that set the bloody benchmark.' This marks the second collaboration between Chiranjeevi and Bobby Kolli, following the commercially successful action entertainer Waltair Veerayya.
What's Next
With the first-half edit locked and the second schedule well underway in Hyderabad, the production is moving into its next critical phase. A Sankranthi 2027 release window remains the target, and further updates from the unit are expected as the second half shoot gathers momentum.
Point of View
So the pace here is notable. That said, 'sources close to the unit' remain the only attribution for these milestones, which warrants some caution. The Sankranthi 2027 window is fiercely competitive, and the pressure on Chiranjeevi to deliver a hit after a mixed recent run makes this production one of Tollywood's most closely watched. The Chiranjeevi-Bobby Kolli pairing previously produced Waltair Veerayya, a commercial success, which raises expectations — and the stakes — considerably.
NationPress
19 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days of shooting has Mega158 completed?
According to sources close to the production, Mega158 has completed 40 days of shooting as of mid-August 2025. The team has also locked the edit of the film's first half.
When is Chiranjeevi's Mega158 releasing?
The film is currently being planned for a Sankranthi 2027 release, according to production sources. No official release date has been announced yet.
Who is directing and producing Mega158?
Mega158 is directed by Bobby Kolli and produced by Venkat K Narayana under the KVN Productions banner. It marks the second collaboration between Chiranjeevi and Bobby Kolli, following Waltair Veerayya.
Who are the key cast and crew members of Mega158?
Anaswara Rajan and Nivetha Pethuraj play pivotal roles alongside Chiranjeevi. Music is by Thaman, cinematography by Vijay Karthik Kannan, art direction by Kolla Avinash, and editing by Antony Ruben.
Where was Mega158 filmed so far?
The film's first schedule was shot in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, and the second schedule commenced in Hyderabad on 22 June 2025. Both schedules featured Chiranjeevi and the main cast.
