The Indian film industry is abuzz with the latest casting update for one of the most anticipated projects of 2026. Disha Patani has officially joined the star-studded ensemble of director Anees Bazmee’s next directorial venture. The film, which already features the iconic duo of Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, is set to be a massive commercial entertainer.
This project marks a significant milestone as it serves as the official Hindi remake of the 2025 Telugu blockbuster Sankranthiki Vasthunam. With a cast that blends seasoned veterans and contemporary stars, the film aims to capture the same magic that made the original a sensation in the Telugu market.
The addition of Disha Patani brings a fresh, high-energy dynamic to the project. Known for her athletic prowess and screen presence, Patani is expected to step into a role that requires both comedic timing and intense screen chemistry.
While Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan have previously collaborated on hits like Heyy Babyy and Mission Mangal, and Vidya recently worked with Anees Bazmee on the record-breaking Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, this new film introduces a unique triangular dynamic. Industry insiders suggest that Disha Patani will portray a pivotal character that complicates the relationship between Akshay and Vidya’s characters, mirroring the “triangular” conflict of the original Telugu film.
The yet-to-be-titled film stays true to the core narrative of Sankranthiki Vasthunam. The original 2025 film, directed by Anil Ravipudi, featured Venkatesh Daggubati in a career-defining role. The story follows an ex-cop who has traded his badge for a peaceful domestic life, only to be dragged back into a high-stakes rescue mission.
The conflict intensifies when the protagonist finds himself sandwiched between two formidable women: his suspicious yet loving wife and his former girlfriend, who happens to be a high-ranking police officer.
- Akshay Kumar will reprise Venkatesh’s role, leaning into his strengths in situational comedy and action.
- Vidya Balan is slated to play the role of the sharp-witted wife.
- Disha Patani will take on the role of the ex-girlfriend/police officer, originally played by Meenakshi Chaudhary.
Director Anees Bazmee, the maestro of ensemble comedies like Welcome and No Entry, is not just remaking the film but “reimagining” it. Sources close to the production indicate that while the core plot remains intact, Bazmee is incorporating fresh gags and localized humour to suit the sensibilities of a pan-India audience.
“Anees and Akshay loved the situational comedy of a man stuck between his past and his present,” says a source from the production house. “The Hindi version will feature about 60% new sequences to ensure it feels fresh, even for those who have seen the original.”
The collaboration between Akshay Kumar and Anees Bazmee is particularly exciting for fans, as it marks their first full-length collaboration in over 15 years, following the legendary success of Singh Is Kinng (2008).
The film is produced by the prolific Dil Raju and Sirish under the prestigious Sri Venkateswara Creations banner. After the success of their original 2025 production, the duo is keen on making a significant dent in the Hindi film market. This project represents one of their most ambitious Bollywood forays to date.
With Anees Bazmee at the helm, audiences can expect high production values, vibrant sets, and a soundtrack that will dominate the charts. Given the success of the original’s music by Bheems Ceciroleo, the Hindi version is expected to feature a blend of catchy dance numbers and soulful melodies that highlight the chemistry between the three leads.
The film is scheduled to go on floors in February 2026, with a rigorous shooting schedule planned across Mumbai and international locations. As Akshay Kumar looks to dominate the 2026 box office, this “reimagined” comedy is being positioned as one of the year’s biggest theatrical events.
The reunion of Akshay and Vidya, coupled with the entry of Disha Patani, makes this project a formidable contender for the top spot in 2026. Fans are already eager to see if Akshay can recreate the “YD Raju” magic that Venkatesh brought to the screen.
