The recently released trailer of Vijay Deverakonda’s upcoming film 'Kingdom' has taken fans by storm—not just because of its action-packed visuals but due to a mysterious 2-second shot that appears at the end. A masked man makes a brief appearance, and fans can't stop speculating: Who is he, and why does he not look like Vijay Deverakonda?

This blink-and-miss moment has sparked a flood of theories—and even comparisons with Rishab Shetty's blockbuster 'Kantara'.

Is There a Kantara Connection?

At the end of the Kingdom trailer, a man in a striking mask appears for just two seconds. Despite the short screen time, the character has created intense buzz and suspense, much like the divine folklore twist at the climax of Kantara (2022).
Fans are now drawing parallels between the mysticism and symbolic visuals of Kantara and this new mysterious character in Kingdom.

But is there really a connection?

Nothing is confirmed yet. However, the visual tone of this scene has enough mythical and symbolic depth to invite such comparisons. It feels intentional—and may hint at a deeper narrative layer in Kingdom, beyond its spy-action facade.

Is the Masked Man Nani?

Another major theory gaining traction is that the masked man could be Tollywood actor Nani. Although there's no official confirmation, fans noted that the physique and eyes do not match Deverakonda’s, further fueling speculation.

If Nani indeed has a cameo or hidden role in Kingdom, it could open doors for a larger cinematic universe or sequel setup—something that’s become a trend in Indian cinema post-KGF and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s LCU.

Vijay Deverakonda as a Spy

Vijay Deverakonda’s role in Kingdom is that of an undercover agent, posing as a criminal in jail while on a secret mission. The trailer showcases action, mystery, and brotherhood—the story revolves around two brothers, Shiva and Suri.
The film is directed by Gautam Tinnanuri, produced by Naga Vamsi, and features music by Anirudh Ravichander. It is set to release in theatres on July 31, 2025.

Kantara’s Legacy Still Haunts

Rishab Shetty's Kantara, with its spiritual undertones and divine climax, left a lasting impression. With over ₹400 crore in global earnings, it became a cultural milestone. Its prequel, Kantara Part 2, is now one of the most awaited projects in Indian cinema.

Whether Kingdom is genuinely inspired by Kantara or the similarities are just coincidental remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: a new mystery is brewing, and fans can’t wait to uncover the truth.