In a surprising development, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has turned down the offer to star in Chamunda, a film that is part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU). Directed by Amar Kaushik, known for his blockbusters like Stree and Bhediya, and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Chamunda was slated to feature Shah Rukh Khan alongside Alia Bhatt.
Shah Rukh Khan Opts for a Different Path
According to reports from Bollywood Hungama, Shah Rukh Khan expressed his reluctance to take up the project. He requested the team to explore a fresh genre for their collaboration instead.
While Shah Rukh Khan’s decision might have been unexpected, it reflects his dedication to exploring diverse and innovative roles that resonate with his vision and audience expectations.
What is Chamunda About?
Chamunda, set within the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, is believed to revolve around a mythological storyline infused with Amar Kaushik’s signature blend of humour, thrills, and supernatural elements. The film was planned to be a grand spectacle with a compelling narrative and stellar performances.
Amar Kaushik has previously struck gold with his horror-comedy ventures, including Stree (2018) and Bhediya (2022). With Chamunda, the director aimed to expand the MHCU and create another unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Shah Rukh Khan-Alia Bhatt Pairing
The idea of Shah Rukh Khan and Alia Bhatt sharing the screen once again garnered significant excitement. The two actors previously delivered a heartfelt performance in Dear Zindagi (2016), and fans were eager to see their on-screen chemistry in a completely new genre.
Maddock Films and MHCU: Building a Franchise
Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films has been instrumental in carving out a unique niche in Indian cinema with its horror-comedy universe. Starting with the massive success of Stree, the MHCU has grown into a beloved franchise, blending supernatural themes with relatable humour.
Despite Shah Rukh Khan’s decision, Chamunda remains a crucial part of Maddock Films’ roadmap for the MHCU. As per the official release schedule, Chamunda is slated to hit theatres in 2026. The team is expected to announce new developments regarding the film’s casting and production in the coming months.
Upcoming Projects of Shah Rukh Khan
As Shah Rukh Khan moves on from Chamunda, fans can look forward to his upcoming projects, which include high-octane action dramas, thought-provoking narratives, and much-anticipated collaborations. Shah Rukh Khan is set to star in his next film, “King,” alongside his daughter Suhana Khan and actor Abhishek Bachchan. Directed by Siddharth Anand, “King” is slated for a mid-2026 release.
Conclusion
While Shah Rukh Khan’s decision to turn down Chamunda has surprised many, it underscores his dedication to roles that align with his creative instincts. Meanwhile, Maddock Films and Amar Kaushik continue to build the MHCU with a focus on delivering memorable stories.
As the industry awaits further announcements on Chamunda and Shah Rukh Khan’s next moves, one thing is certain: both the actor and the MHCU will continue to raise the bar for Indian cinema. Stay tuned for updates on casting, production, and other developments as the film gears up for its 2026 release.
