In a major casting coup that injects fresh energy into one of Bollywood’s most anticipated projects, actress Pratibha Ranta officially joins Kartik Aaryan in the lead role for the high-concept creature comedy, Naagzilla: Naag Lok Ka Pehla Kaand. The film, a joint production between Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films, has officially begun principal photography, setting the stage for a grand theatrical release on August 14, 2026.
Ranta, who recently won widespread acclaim for her breakout performance in the Oscar-nominated film Laapataa Ladies, secured the coveted role after emerging as the frontrunner, reportedly surpassing actress Sanya Malhotra, who was initially speculated to be the top choice for the female lead.
The production officially went on floors this week, marking the beginning of filming for this ambitious fantasy-comedy. Director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, best known for the successful Fukrey franchise, takes the helm, promising a blend of humour, high-stakes fantasy, and unique storytelling.
The makers, led by producers Karan Johar and Mahaveer Jain, have opted for Pratibha Ranta, recognizing her immense potential and ability to bring a unique, fresh dynamic to the screen.
Sources close to the production indicate that while established names were considered, the team was highly impressed by Ranta’s magnetic screen presence and her relatively low exposure in mainstream cinema, believing she offers the novelty required for the lead pairing in what is planned as the first installment of a “serpent trilogy.”
“Pratibha Ranta’s performance in her debut made a significant impact. The combination of her fresh face and undeniable talent was a deciding factor for the team looking to create a memorable, new pairing opposite Kartik Aaryan for this creature universe,” commented an industry insider.
The search for the leading lady of Naagzilla had been a subject of intense media speculation for months. While names like Sanya Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor were heavily debated among industry circles and fan communities, Pratibha Ranta’s eventual casting represents a strategic move toward talent discovery and nurturing new-age stars.
Ranta’s recent successes and critical appreciation appear to have propelled her past more established contenders. The actress is also reportedly working on another project with a major production house, highlighting her busy schedule and high demand following her acclaimed debut. The casting decision underscores the producers’ confidence in Ranta’s capability to carry a mainstream, high-budget production.
Naagzilla centers around Kartik Aaryan’s character, Preyamvadeshwar Pyare Chand, an Ichhadhari Naag (shape-shifting serpent). The motion poster, released earlier this year, teased the concept, featuring a shirtless Kartik with snakeskin-like textures, accompanied by the quirky voiceover: “Insaano wali picturein toh bahut dekh li, ab dekho naago wali picture!” (We’ve seen enough films about humans; now watch a film about serpents!).
The film promises to be a spectacular visual adventure, intertwining ancient serpentine mythology with contemporary comedy. Director Lamba is expected to deliver his signature humour against the backdrop of an elaborate fantasy setting, creating a unique cinematic experience that will appeal to a wide family audience.
Mark your calendars! Dharma Productions has locked August 14, 2026, for the grand theatrical release of Naagzilla. The date strategically aligns with the Independence Day long weekend, a prime slot traditionally reserved for major box office hits.
With a powerful production team, a proven director, and the new, exciting pairing of Kartik Aaryan and Pratibha Ranta, Naagzilla is poised to become one of the biggest releases of 2026 and potentially launch a new, lucrative fantasy franchise for Bollywood. Fans eagerly await further details and a first look at the on-screen chemistry between the fresh leads.
