The master of soulful storytelling, Imtiaz Ali, is ready to weave his magic on the silver screen once again. In a thrilling announcement that has sent cinema lovers into a frenzy, the makers officially locked the release date for Ali’s yet-untitled romantic drama. The film is set to premiere in theaters worldwide on June 12, 2026.
This project marks a significant milestone as it brings together a never-seen-before ensemble cast: global sensation Diljit Dosanjh, rising star Vedang Raina, and the versatile Sharvari. Backed by the production powerhouses Applause Entertainment and Window Seat Films, the movie promises to be a “charming story of love and longing.”
One of the biggest talking points of the film is its fresh and diverse lead cast. Imtiaz Ali has a reputation for extracting career-best performances from his actors, and the expectations for this trio are sky-high.
- Diljit Dosanjh: Following the monumental success of Amar Singh Chamkila (2024), Diljit reunites with Ali. Known for his effortless charm and deep emotional range, Diljit’s presence ensures a massive draw from both the Punjabi diaspora and mainstream audiences.
- Vedang Raina: Fresh off the acclaim of Jigra, Vedang represents the new generation of Bollywood. His intense screen presence is expected to provide the perfect foil to the film’s romantic narrative.
- Sharvari: Having proved her mettle in blockbusters like Munjya and the high-octane spy thriller Alpha, Sharvari steps into the “Imtiaz Ali heroine” world—a role that has historically defined the careers of actresses like Kareena Kapoor and Deepika Padukone.
The film also features the legendary Naseeruddin Shah in a pivotal role, adding a layer of veteran gravitas to the ensemble.
For many fans, the real “stars” of an Imtiaz Ali film are the people behind the soundtrack. This untitled project officially reunites the legendary musical trio of A.R. Rahman (Music), Irshad Kamil (Lyrics), and Imtiaz Ali (Director).
This creative synergy has previously delivered some of Indian cinema’s most iconic albums, including Rockstar, Highway, Tamasha, and Laila Majnu. In an industry often dominated by remakes and fast-paced tracks, a Rahman-Kamil-Ali collaboration signifies a return to soulful, narrative-driven music that lives on for decades.
While the makers have kept specific plot points under wraps, industry insiders suggest the film is a sweeping period romance. Reports indicate that the story is set against the backdrop of the 1940s Partition in Punjab.
Unlike traditional war dramas, Ali’s lens reportedly focuses on the “love and longing” of a young couple separated by the sudden drawing of borders. Imtiaz Ali described the film as having a “big heart” and a “large canvas,” stating, “It is a story of a boy and a girl, but also a country.” This suggests a narrative that blends personal intimacy with the grand, tragic history of the Indian subcontinent.
The film is a landmark collaboration between Sameer Nair’s Applause Entertainment and Imtiaz Ali’s Window Seat Films. This partnership combines Applause’s track record for high-quality, content-driven storytelling with Ali’s distinct directorial vision.
The movie is currently in its post-production phase, with the team meticulously working on the visual effects and the intricate soundscape required for a period setting. Originally rumoured for a Baisakhi release in April 2026, the shift to June 12 allows the film a clear window to dominate the summer box office.
By selecting a mid-June release, the producers are eyeing the peak holiday season. As audiences look for meaningful yet entertaining cinema, Imtiaz Ali’s brand of “travel, love, and self-discovery” fits the summer mood perfectly.
The film’s announcement has already sparked massive engagement on social media, with Sharvari calling it her “best birthday gift ever” and manifesting a collaboration with Ali for years. For Diljit Dosanjh, this project further cements his status as one of the most bankable and respected actors in the industry today.
Imtiaz Ali has spent the last two decades redefining modern romance. From the bubbly energy of Jab We Met to the complex psychological layers of Tamasha, his films are more than just movies; they are emotional experiences. With the backing of A.R. Rahman’s score and a cast that spans generations, the June 12 release is poised to be the most talked-about romantic epic of 2026.
