Wait, Did we see Nani in Vijay Deverakonda's 'Kingdom'? - Explained

After a string of quieter releases, Vijay Deverakonda is finally making noise — the kind that echoes through theatres and spills onto social media feeds. His latest film Kingdom arrived in cinemas today, and the atmosphere could not be more electric. From first shows at dawn to packed screenings across major cities, the film has triggered an all-out celebration for fans of high-voltage storytelling.

Directed by Jersey filmmaker Gowtam Tinnanuri, Kingdom explores the gritty underbelly of 1990s Sri Lanka through the eyes of an undercover cop navigating a dangerous political maze. Vijay slips into the role with intensity, playing a man fuelled by personal loss and strategic cunning. While the storyline plunges deep into geopolitical turmoil, the emotional stakes remain front and centre.

But it is not just the lead performance or the cinematic scale that is igniting buzz. In a move no one saw coming, actor Nani makes a surprise appearance in the film, a detail that was not teased in trailers or press junkets. His cameo is being hailed as a total crowd-puller, with audiences erupting in cheers the moment he appears on screen. The nature of his role is still under wraps, and that mystery seems to be working in the film’s favour.

Social media platforms are already flooded with reactions as fan videos from theatre screenings go viral. Comments are not just praising the film, they are treating it like a mass celebration. The phrase “blockbuster bomma” has practically become a chant online.

Meanwhile, director Gowtam Tinnanuri took to social media earlier today to thank audiences, mentioning how much heart the team poured into the film. And if the early reactions are any indication, it is paying off in a big way.

With strong word of mouth, high octane moments and a surprise star appearance, Kingdom is not just a film. It is an event. And for Vijay Deverakonda, it might just be the turning point fans have been waiting for.