Is Allu Arjun's AA23 shelved? Lokesh Kanagaraj breaks silence, shares update

Director Lokesh Kanagaraj has teased “interesting updates” about his upcoming film with Allu Arjun, tentatively titled AA23, sparking fresh anticipation around their first collaboration. On Monday, Lokesh shared a candid picture on Instagram showing him in a deep discussion with the actor, hinting that an update on the much-anticipated project could be around the corner.Although Lokesh did not reveal what the announcement would be about, his post has renewed interest in the film, which has remained under wraps since its official announcement. Tentatively titled AA23 and LK7, the project marks Allu Arjun’s 23rd film as a lead actor and Lokesh’s seventh directorial venture. The update comes amid industry rumours about the film being shelved.“Interesting updates coming soon,” Lokesh captioned the picture, adding emojis. Production house Mythri Movie Makers officially announced the collaboration in January, describing it as one that would be “eternal in Indian cinema”. The makers also confirmed that the film would go on floors in 2026 and receive a pan-Indian release.Interesting updates coming soon @alluarjun @MythriOfficial @anirudhofficial https://t.co/XcycmgMXZX— Lokesh Kanagaraj (@Dir_Lokesh) October 12, 2026The film will feature music by Anirudh Ravichander, marking another collaboration between the composer and Lokesh after Master, Vikram, Leo and Coolie. The theme music released with the announcement video had crossed one million reels on Instagram, with Lokesh sharing the picture with Allu Arjun as the track reached the milestone. The makers have not revealed the film’s plot or Allu Arjun’s character. Earlier reports suggested that the actor would sport a never-seen-before look for the project. According to a source close to the production, Allu Arjun and Lokesh have spent considerable time researching and exploring different looks to ensure that his appearance stands apart from his previous roles.There have also been reports suggesting that the film could feature science-fiction and superhero elements. However, the makers have not officially confirmed these details. The script is being developed by Rathna Kumar, who has previously collaborated with Lokesh on Master and Leo. In an earlier update, Rathna confirmed that work on the script had begun and described the story as one with global appeal.Meanwhile, Allu Arjun is also working on Raaka, directed by Atlee, while Lokesh is set to make his acting debut with DC, directed by Arun Matheswaran.For now, Lokesh’s latest post has brought AA23 back into the spotlight, with fans awaiting further details about the film and what the director has planned for his first collaboration with Allu Arjun.- Ends