Bollywood star Shraddha Kapoor has definitively silenced rumours of her exit from director Rahi Anil Barve‘s ambitious new project, ‘Pahadpangira’. The actor will not only headline the dark fantasy film but also take on a creative role alongside her acting duties, signalling a major move into content development. The much-anticipated shoot is set to commence in mid-2026.
This confirmation locks in one of the most exciting collaborations in recent memory, pairing the commercially potent star with the visionary director behind the cult classic Tumbbad.
‘Pahadpangira’ is generating significant buzz as a unique dark fantasy project deeply rooted in Indian myth and folklore. Earlier reports suggest the film, which was at one point envisioned as part of the Tumbbad universe, will explore themes of feminism against the backdrop of the Sati practice. The originality and potential for expansion have reportedly captivated Kapoor, who sees the project as a strong candidate for a franchise.
Director Rahi Anil Barve has developed a reputation for visually stunning, story-driven horror and fantasy. His previous work has cemented his position as a director who pushes the boundaries of the genre in Indian cinema, making ‘Pahadpangira’ a highly anticipated title.
Shraddha Kapoor’s decision to move beyond her role as a lead actor and assume a creative capacity on Pahadpangira marks a pivotal moment in her career.
Sources close to the development confirm that the actor is highly impressed by the script’s originality and plans to contribute actively to the project’s creative direction. This dual role reflects a growing trend among leading stars who seek greater control and influence over the content they create. The star, riding high on the massive success of Stree 2, actively selects projects that challenge her and offer fresh, unique narratives.
The move into a creative producer’s role indicates Kapoor’s belief in the film’s potential to resonate deeply with a wider audience and potentially evolve into a significant franchise.
The final schedule for the film is now clearer, giving fans a solid timeline. The mid-2026 start date for Pahadpangira is contingent upon director Rahi Anil Barve completing his work on his currently ongoing Netflix series, ‘Rakht Brahmand‘.
Simultaneously, Shraddha Kapoor will fulfill her existing commitments before moving to the fantasy epic. She will first wrap up Laxman Utekar’s next project, which is scheduled to begin filming later this year. Once both key talents conclude their respective projects, they will converge to kick off the ambitious shoot for Pahadpangira.
This staggered schedule is a strategic move, allowing both the director and the star to deliver on their current commitments while ensuring a focused start for the dark fantasy film when the time comes. This update provides much-needed clarity, extinguishing the earlier rumours and paving the way for one of 2026’s most-watched film launches.
