Following the blockbuster success of emotionally driven dramas in late 2025, Bollywood is doubling down on youthful romance. In what is being hailed as the industry’s next big casting coup, producers Atul Kasbekar and Tanuj Garg are reportedly in advanced discussions with Rohit Saraf, Nitanshi Goel, and Rasha Thadani to headline an upcoming intense love story.
The project, which remains untitled, marks a significant collaboration between the producers of the 2016 National Award-winning film Neerja and three of the most promising faces of the new generation. While the makers have yet to lock in a director, the buzz surrounding this “fresh love triangle” is already reaching a fever pitch.
The choice of actors reflects a strategic move to capture the Gen Z and millennial demographic. Each of the three leads brings a unique screen presence that has already resonated with audiences.
- Rohit Saraf: Often dubbed the “Internet’s Crush,” Rohit has carved a niche for himself with his soft, romantic charm. His portrayal of Rishi Singh Shekhawat in Mismatched and his recent stint in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari have solidified his reputation as a reliable romantic lead.
- Nitanshi Goel: After her breakout performance in Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies (2024)—which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Debut (Female) in 2025—Nitanshi has become one of the most sought-after young talents. Her innocent yet powerful acting style is expected to provide the emotional core of this new project.
- Rasha Thadani: Following her impressive debut in the action-drama Azaad (2025), Rasha has quickly become a fashion and youth icon. With her upcoming project Laikey Laikaa already generating interest, this intense love story could be the project that showcases her range in a purely dramatic space.
Producers Atul Kasbekar and Tanuj Garg, under their banner Ellipsis Entertainment, are known for backing content-driven cinema that balances commercial appeal with critical acclaim. From the high-stakes tension of Neerja to the slice-of-life charm of Tumhari Sulu and the recent Do Aur Do Pyaar, their filmography suggests this new love story will be anything but conventional.
Industry insiders suggest that the producers are looking to move away from the “alpha hero” tropes that dominated the box office in 2023 and 2024. Instead, they are leaning into vulnerability, complex emotional dynamics, and authentic Gen Z experiences.
“Rohit has a gentle, romantic charm that’s quite different from the typical alpha heroes we see today,” a source familiar with the project told Mid-Day. “The makers thought it would be exciting to bring these three together in a story that explores new emotional territory.”
The timing of this announcement is no coincidence. The massive success of films like Saiyaara in 2025 has signalled a shift in audience appetite. After a long period dominated by “massy” action entertainers, viewers are reportedly gravitating back toward stories centered on human connection, heartbreak, and passion.
By pairing the “gentle” charm of Saraf with the “powerhouse” talent of Goel and the “edgy” screen presence of Thadani, the makers are creating a dynamic that feels contemporary and fresh.
Despite the casting discussions moving at a brisk pace, the search for a director continues. The producers are reportedly seeking a filmmaker with a strong visual sense and a deep understanding of character-driven narratives.
The goal is to find a director who can navigate the complexities of an “intense love triangle” without falling into the clichés of the early 2000s. The film is expected to feature a high-quality soundtrack and lush cinematography, making it a “theatrical-first” experience rather than a direct-to-digital release.
While negotiations for this project continue, the leads have packed schedules for the remainder of 2026:
- Rohit Saraf is gearing up for the premiere of Mismatched Season 4 and has the period drama The Revolutionaries in the pipeline.
- Nitanshi Goel has reportedly signed a major project with Ekta Kapoor.
- Rasha Thadani is currently prepping for the release of the dark romance Laikey Laikaa alongside Abhay Verma.
Official confirmations regarding the title, director, and filming schedule are expected once the principal cast is formally locked.
