AA 23: Lokesh Kanagaraj joins forces with Allu Arjun for a biggie, here’s when shoot will start
AA 23: Noted Tamil director Lokesh Kanagaraj has confirmed his next film will be with Allu Arjun, which will also have music by his frequent collaborator Anirudh Ravichander.
Last Updated: 06.54 PM, Jan 14, 2026
Telugu star Allu Arjun had a sensational 2025 with the blockbuster success of his film Pushpa 2. The actor’s next with director Lokesh Kanagaraj, tentatively titled AA 23, has now been officially announced. Lokesh, who previously helmed Rajinikanth-starrer Coolie, made the announcement on social media.
What did Lokesh Kanagaraj say about AA 23
Noted Tamil director Lokesh Kanagaraj has confirmed his next film with Allu Arjun, which will also have music by his frequent collaborator Anirudh Ravichander. Lokesh made the big announcement on the special occasion of Bhogi on January 14. Taking to social media, Lokesh wrote, “Looking forward to kicking off this journey with you sir. Let's make it a massive blast,” while also tagging Anirudh as “Once again with my brother”.
The Vikram director also shared a short animated video which looked to be set in the Savannas, and a rap song, while confirming Icon Star Allu Arjun would be in charge. The short video, with the fun rap, confirms that the shoot will start in 2026.
Anirudh also took to social media to say that this has been the combo you have all been waiting for. Scoring for Icon Star and Director Lokesh is ‘special’, he added.
The upcoming film, which is sure to be mounted on a massive scale, is produced by Mythri Movie Makers, who had previously backed Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 1 and Pushpa 2.
More details about the cast and crew were not immediately revealed.
Notably, Allu Arjun is currently shooting for another Tamil director, Atlee’s next, which is expected to wrap up a lot of portions by September 2026. Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone will star as the female lead in this film, AA 22.
OTTplay had earlier reported that AA23 is likely to begin shooting in October 2026 in Hyderabad after his film with Atlee.
How are fans reacting to AA23 announcement
The video has sparked excitement among fans, but some netizens are cautious, considering Lokesh’s previous film Coolie failed to impress audiences despite having Rajinikanth in the lead. But most of the fans were excited to see the combination of Telugu star and Tamil director. Several netizens also praised the BGM score of the short video
AA 23 film FAQs
Q. Who is the music director of AA23?
A. Anirudh Ravichander is the music director for AA23, helmed by noted Tamil director Lokesh Kanagaraj
Q. Who is the heroine of AA23?
A. The makers have not officially announced the heroine of AA 23
Q. What will AA23 start?
A. AA 23, starring Allu Arjun, will start shooting in 2026.