Vicky Kaushal is reportedly making significant lifestyle changes to prepare for his role as Chiranjeevi Parashurama in the upcoming film Mahavatar. Sources indicate that both Kaushal and director Amar Kaushik have decided to abstain from non-vegetarian food and alcohol as part of their spiritual preparation for this epic role.

Mahavatar is directed by Amar Kaushik and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films. The film is based on the life of Parashurama, a fierce warrior and one of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Kaushal's commitment to the role is evident in his decision to adopt a lifestyle that reflects the character's values.

According to reports, this decision reflects their dedication to the project and a desire to fully immerse themselves in the roles. "A film like Mahavatar requires complete focus, and the duo have decided to give it all to make it a pure spectacle for the cinema-going audience," a source revealed. They will commence their preparations with a grand pooja ceremony in mid-2026. Amar Kaushik is currently working on the pre-visualization of Mahavatar, while Vicky Kaushal is focused on completing Love and War, which is currently behind schedule. Vicky will adopt the new food habits once the shooting for Love and War wraps up. This decision is seen as a sign of respect for the role of Lord Parashurama.

The film is slated to go on floors towards the end of 2026 and is expected to be released in 2028. The extensive post-production work, including significant VFX, requires a year of production followed by six months of post-production.

Mahavatar marks another collaboration between Vicky Kaushal and Dinesh Vijan, following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke and the upcoming movie Chhaava. Amar Kaushik is known for directing successful horror comedies such as Stree and Bhediya.

While initially slated for a Christmas 2026 release, Mahavatar may face delays due to Kaushal's commitment to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War and the film's extensive VFX requirements. The actor has reportedly allocated 200 days to Love and War, with filming expected to continue until the third quarter of 2025.

A motion poster was shared on social media in 2024, featuring Kaushal in a fiery representation of Parashurama, complete with flowing locks, a beard, and the iconic double-edged battle axe.