In an exciting development for Bollywood fans, Ajay Devgn and Rakul Preet Singh are confirmed to begin shooting for the much-awaited sequel to their hit film De De Pyaar De 2 this June. Under the direction of newcomer Anshul Sharma, and backed by producer Luv Ranjan, the sequel intends to pick up where the original left off, probing deeper into the reactions of a family confronting an unconventional romantic relationship.
Continuing the storyline, the original film charted the journey of a 50-year-old businessman, played by Ajay Devgn, who introduces his 26-year-old girlfriend, enacted by Rakul, to his family and ex-wife. The upcoming sequel promises to explore the aftermath of this introduction with a humorous twist. Fueling audience curiosity, reports suggest that Anil Kapoor has been cast to play the role of Rakul’s father. His interest was reportedly piqued by the unique concept and the comedic elements of the script.
The on-screen chemistry between Anil Kapoor and Ajay Devgn is tipped to be a major talking point for the movie, with an industry insider highlighting the novelty of their confrontation in the film, a first for both actors. The central narrative is set to revolve around Ajay and Rakul’s characters striving to win her family’s approval. Uncertainty remains, however, on whether Tabu, who portrayed Ajay’s ex-wife in the original, will return to revive her character.
In other news, actor Sahil Khan has arrived from Dubai to Mumbai to respond to inquiries connected to a massive betting app scam, being investigated by the Special Investigative Team (SIT) of the Crime Branch. Reportedly, he declined a substantial offer to feature in the third edition of Bigg Boss OTT, as his current focus is on an impending film project. The forthcoming film, written by Milap Zaveri and directed by Sam Khan, heralds a reunion with Sharman Joshi, his former co-star from Style (2001) and Xcuse Me (2003). The movie’s title is yet to be unveiled.
Turning to upcoming talent, Babil Khan, son of the late cinematic icon Irrfan Khan, is all set for his next project in collaboration with director Shoojit Sircar. This poignant love story is spearheaded by advertising filmmaker Dhiraj Banerjee. The lead actress starring opposite Babil remains a mystery as of now. The film, initially commenced in Darjeeling, is on track for completion by the end of May, with a release slated for later in the year. Piquing interest, this project marks Babil’s second team-up with Sircar, who previously directed the elder Khan in Piku (2015). Though their first creation, The Umesh Chronicles, awaits release, it promises a narrative rich with the nuances of life in small-town India.
In the realm of social responsibility, Bhumi Pednekar has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for ‘The Weather Kids’, a global initiative aimed at raising climate change awareness and spurring collective action. Alongside Oscar laureate Michelle Yeoh, Bhumi will leverage her influence to advocate for sustainable environmental practices.
The legendary Amitabh Bachchan has been making moves beyond the film industry, expanding his property portfolio with a recent purchase of a sizeable plot in Alibaug, following another major investment in a luxurious project in Ayodhya.
Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan, though not reprising his role in Don 3, cannot seem to shake off portrayals of crime lords. He is set to star and produce the movie King under Sujoy Ghosh’s direction, marking a shift from a cameo to a full-fledged starring role as a don who reigns over the underworld.
Lastly, actor Arjan Bajwa is gearing up for his first foray into the international film scene with Demon Hunters, a joint Indo-Taiwanese production. All eyes will be on the Cannes Film Market, where exclusive footage of the action-comedy will premiere, signaling an exciting start for the upcoming year.
As the film industry buzzes with these various projects, star-studded casts, and global ambitions, movie aficionados have a lot to look forward to on the big screen.
