A much-awaited reunion has finally taken place as Bollywood’s dynamic duo, Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, have officially begun shooting for their upcoming film, “Haiwaan.” The project, directed by their long-time collaborator Priyadarshan, marks their return to the big screen together after 18 years. The news was confirmed by Akshay Kumar himself, who shared a fun-filled video on his Instagram, showing the trio in a playful mood on the first day of the shoot.
The video posted by Akshay Kumar shows him, Saif Ali Khan, and Priyadarshan in what appears to be a light-hearted moment before the cameras start rolling. Akshay is seen holding a clapperboard with the film’s title, “Haiwaan,” as the three share a laugh. This friendly banter and camaraderie between the trio set a positive tone for a project that is reportedly a suspense thriller. This film is the Hindi adaptation of Priyadarshan’s highly praised 2016 Malayalam movie Oppam, originally starring Mohanlal. While the original was a gripping story of a visually-impaired man on the run, the Hindi adaptation is expected to have a few twists of its own.
Akshay and Saif’s reunion holds special significance, as the duo last shared screen space in the 2008 film Tashan. However, their on-screen partnership is best remembered for their iconic pairing in the 1990s in films like Main Khiladi Tu Anari and Yeh Dillagi. Their effortless chemistry and comic timing were a highlight of those films, and fans are now eagerly waiting to see if they can recreate that magic.
Produced under the banners of KVN Productions and Thespian Films, Haiwaan brings together Venkat K Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn as co-producers, highlighting a major industry collaboration. KVN Productions, a leading banner in South Indian cinema, is expanding its footprint in the Hindi film industry with this project, making it a high-stakes venture for all parties involved.
Filming is said to have begun in Kochi and is expected to take place in other locations like Ooty and Mumbai. The film is slated for a 2026 theatrical release. Given the impressive track record of the actor-director duo of Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan, who have delivered several box office hits in the past, expectations are sky-high for “Haiwaan.” Their past collaborations, from the comedies like Hera Pheri and Garam Masala to the serious dramas like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, have consistently showcased their versatility. This new film, with its thrilling premise and the reunion of two of Bollywood’s biggest stars, is poised to be one of the most anticipated releases of the year.
