If Chhaava (2025) was any indication, Vicky Kaushal slips effortlessly into larger-than-life characters. Now, another ambitious role is waiting for him. We’ve heard that Mahavatar — which will see the actor play Chiranjeevi Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu — will go on floors in October. That’s eight months away, and for good reason. The actor needs to build a bulky physique for the mythological epic that will be directed by Amar Kaushik of Stree fame.

Considering the epic is mounted on a grand scale, its pre-production has already begun. But it will be a while before Kaushal immerses himself in its world.

A source told mid-day, “The actor cannot begin his physical prep as he is currently shooting Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War, in which he sports an athletic look. For Mahavatar, he will need to build a heavy frame like that of a wrestler, complete with a rugged look and long, matted hair. After Love & War reaches the finish line in April, the actor will adopt a new diet plan and workout regime to attain the required look.”

Given his distinct look for the epic, it’s unlikely that Kaushal will sign any new projects while filming it.

Producer Dinesh Vijan and the director are using this time to build the mythological drama’s world. The source added, “The DoP [Director of Photography], art, production, and costume design teams have begun soft prep. The hunt for the leading lady, who will play Dharini, is underway. The rumour of Deepika Padukone being the female lead was baseless.”