Kichcha Sudeep to Play Sri Krishnadevaraya in Historical Epic Devaraaya, Set for 2027 Release

Kichcha Sudeep has announced his ambitious new historical film, Devaraaya, in which he will portray Sri Krishnadevaraya, one of the most celebrated emperors of the Vijayanagara Empire. The project was unveiled on September 2 as part of the actor's 55th birthday celebrations, with the makers releasing his first-look poster and an announcement video.

The upcoming film is expected to be mounted on a grand scale and will mark Sudeep's return to a larger-than-life historical setting. The first look has already generated interest among fans, who will see the actor take on the role of the legendary Vijayanagara ruler.

Devaraaya is being jointly backed by People Media Factory and Supriyanvi Picture Studios. The project is supported by producers TG Vishwa Prasad and Krithi Prasad and is currently being prepared as a major historical epic.

While the makers have confirmed Kichcha Sudeep as the lead and revealed the film's title, details about the director have not yet been announced. The production team is expected to spend significant time on technical preparations and large-scale production work before bringing the historical story to the big screen.

The makers are reportedly planning a theatrical release for Devaraaya in December 2027.

Sri Krishnadevaraya remains one of the most significant rulers in Indian history and is remembered for his military achievements, administration and patronage of literature and the arts. His reign is widely regarded as an important period in the history of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The character also has a notable connection with Kannada cinema, as legendary actor Dr Rajkumar had previously portrayed Krishnadevaraya on screen. Sudeep's upcoming portrayal will therefore bring the historical figure back to cinema in a new large-scale adaptation.

Apart from Devaraaya, Kichcha Sudeep has several major projects lined up. The actor is also working on Billa Ranga Baashaa: First Blood, a pan-India futuristic action film directed by Anup Bhandari.

The project reunites Sudeep with Bhandari after Vikrant Rona. Set in a dystopian world in 2209 AD, Billa Ranga Baashaa: First Blood is expected to combine action, adventure and futuristic storytelling. Its first look introduced Sudeep in a rugged avatar riding a motorcycle across a snow-covered battlefield.

Sudeep will also return to television as the host of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 13, which is scheduled to premiere on September 6 on Colors Kannada and JioHotstar.

With Devaraaya adding a major historical epic to his slate, alongside a futuristic pan-India action film and his return to television, Kichcha Sudeep has several high-profile projects ahead. The announcement of his role as Sri Krishnadevaraya has now placed Devaraaya among the most anticipated Kannada historical films planned for 2027.