Lokesh Kanagaraj announced this pan-India project, which is set to begin production in 2026.
Director Lokesh Kanagaraj has teamed up with superstar Allu Arjun for his 23rd film. The official announcement was made on January 14, 2026, during the Bhogi festivities ahead of Sankranti. This high-profile collaboration is tentatively titled AA23 and will be produced by Mythri Movie Makers, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander.
Official Confirmation and Timeline
Allu Arjun responded, “I SAY 23. Goin on a spree… Locked in mentally… with Maverick @lokesh.kanagaraj garu & brother @anirudhofficial.”
Producer Bunny Vas confirmed that production is scheduled to begin in mid-2026.
Box Office Credentials
Allu Arjun enters the project following Pushpa 2: The Rule, which collected ₹1,871 crore worldwide. Lokesh Kanagaraj’s most recent film, Coolie, starring Rajinikanth, earned ₹518 crore globally.
Cast and Production Details
Besides Allu Arjun, no additional cast members have been officially confirmed. Earlier speculation involving Rashmika Mandanna, Deepika Padukone, and others remains unverified. Casting announcements are expected during pre-production in mid-2026.
Mythri Movie Makers has not disclosed the film’s budget. The project is being developed as a pan-India release, leveraging the director’s strong presence in Tamil cinema and the actor’s dominance in the Telugu market.
Industry Significance
The collaboration marks a major cross-regional partnership in Indian cinema. The project is also being referred to as LK07 (Lokesh Kanagaraj’s seventh directorial venture) and AALoki. The official title and full cast details are expected to be announced closer to the start of production.
