Ek aur prem kahaani
There is a strong industry buzz that Karan Johar is preparing for his next directorial venture under Dharma Productions. Reports suggest the filmmaker will reunite with Alia Bhatt for the third time after Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023). While Alia is apparently finalised as the female lead, the search for her co-star is down to two major names — Vicky Kaushal and Ranbir Kapoor. We have learnt that both actors have been approached, with an announcement expected soon. Alia and Vicky previously impressed audiences with their chemistry in Raazi (2018), while all three stars — Alia, Vicky, and Ranbir — are currently working together on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s period epic Love & War, slated for release in early 2026.
Bringing the pesticide scams to light
(L-R) Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade on the sets of ‘The Indian Storry’
Actors Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade have completed filming The India Storry, a social drama delving into pesticide-related scandals in India. The film also stars Murali Sharma, Manish Wadhwa, and Trisha Sarda, and is directed by Cheytan DK. Produced by Sagar B Shinde and MIG Production and Studios, it is slated for a 2026 theatrical release. Speaking about the project, the director told mid-day, “The India Storry is not just a film, it is a mirror to the realities we often choose to ignore. Through this story, I wanted to highlight the silent victims of greed and negligence and remind us of the true cost of corruption on human lives.”
Living the Telugu spirit
Vivek Oberoi and Prabhas
After Prabhas and Triptii Dimri, the newest one to join the cast of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit is none other than Vivek Oberoi. As per reports, the actor has been approached to play an antagonist. It is known that Prabhas plays a cop and Triptii, a doctor, but nothing more is known about Vivek’s role at this point. Industry insiders believe that the way Bobby Deol’s presence in Animal (2023) gave his career a new lease of life, Spirit might do the same for Vivek’s career.
Fresh pairing for the screen
Ahaan Panday and Sharvari
New pair alert! Just a few days ago, reports surfaced that Saiyaara breakout star Ahaan Panday is set to feature in filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar’s upcoming action romance (Filmmakers lining up, September 30). While neither has confirmed the speculation, fresh reports have emerged that Sharvari has been roped in to play the leading part in the film. Yash Raj Films, which launched Ahaan with the romantic blockbuster also starring Aneet Padda, is backing the yet-untitled project, which will reportedly go on floors in March 2026 in the UK. It marks Ali’s comeback to the production house after a gap of eight years. His last collaboration with YRF was the Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer Tiger Zinda Hai (2017).
En route Hyderabad
Raghav Juyal and Nani
Actor Raghav Juyal and director Srikanth Odela have begun work on their upcoming Telugu film The Paradise with a script reading session in Hyderabad. The film reunites the director with Telugu star Nani after Dasara (2023) and marks Raghav’s Telugu debut (Raghav raises the stakes, October 5). Sharing a glimpse from the session, Juyal wrote on social media, “The Paradise begins. Had a blast at the script reading session with my dearest Srikanth Odela. Natural Star Nani garu, can’t wait to join you (sic).” The Paradise is among the most anticipated Telugu films in the making and is slated to arrive in cinemas on March 26, 2026.
