In a surprising turn of events, Bollywood is abuzz with the news that Ayushmann Khurrana has stepped down from director Meghna Gulzar’s upcoming hard-hitting drama starring Kareena Kapoor Khan. This film, reportedly based on the tragic 2019 Hyderabad rape and murder case, had generated substantial interest since its announcement in June this year (Fresh Jodi, June 18). The potential on-screen chemistry between the new pair of Khurrana and Kapoor had fans eagerly awaiting more details. However, as mid-day exclusively reveals, Khurrana is no longer part of this eagerly anticipated project.
The decision, sources say, was fueled by none other than a scheduling conflict. Ayushmann Khurrana, known for his meticulous planning and dedication to his roles, found himself unable to accommodate Meghna Gulzar’s project in his already packed schedule. “Ayushmann has two major films lined up for this year,” a source close to the actor disclosed, “and combining these shooting schedules with his other commitments has become an insurmountable challenge.”
Digging deeper into the causes behind the actor’s decision, sources confirmed that Director Meghna Gulzar plans to commence shooting the film—tentatively titled ‘Daayra’—towards the end of the year. This timeline presents a significant clash for Khurrana, who is also preparing for a major music tour in November. An insider provided more details, “Ayushmann’s music tour had been announced well in advance and includes multiple performances across major cities in the United States. In addition to the tour, he has taken on substantial film projects this year.”
Specifically, Khurrana is committed to Border 2 and two other films—one under the banner of Karan Johar and Guneet Monga Kapoor, and another by Maddock Films. The scheduling and coordination for these movies are currently in the negotiation phase, but it is clear that adding Meghna’s film to the roster is simply not feasible. “The production team’s been informed, and Meghna is already on the lookout for a suitable replacement for Ayushmann,” the source added.
Looking at Ayushmann’s other commitments, free time is clearly a scarce resource for the actor.
. His music tour itself demands extensive preparations, both for travel and for the multiple performances scheduled across various locales. Highlighting the actor’s commitment to his projects, the insider noted, “Ayushmann is known for his dedication to every role he plays and every concert he performs. He never does anything halfway, which is likely why he decided against stretching himself too thin with Meghna’s film.”
On the other side, fans eagerly awaiting the novel pairing of Ayushmann Khurrana with Kareena Kapoor will need to be patient. Moreover, all eyes are now on Meghna Gulzar as she scouts for a replacement who can fill Khurrana’s shoes in her intense drama film.
The excitement around the project, despite Khurrana’s exit, remains high. Meghna Gulzar is celebrated for her thought-provoking storytelling and nuanced direction, as seen in her earlier works like ‘Raazi’ and ‘Chhapaak’. The anticipation was further enhanced by the gravity of the subject matter—the 2019 Hyderabad case—that forms the film’s core narrative. Kareena Kapoor Khan, already on board, is set to bring her formidable acting prowess to the fore in what promises to be a gripping portrayal.
The initial announcement of the film in June had led to an overwhelming response from fans and the film fraternity alike. The pairing was seen as fresh and exciting, with discussions on various social media platforms speculating the dynamic the two actors would bring to the screen. Unfortunately, the wait will continue to see how the final casting shapes up.
In conclusion, while Ayushmann Khurrana’s exit from the project is a disappointment for many, it serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that come with high-profile film productions. The actor’s choice underscores the importance of prioritizing existing commitments and maintaining the quality of work that both he and his fans expect. As Meghna Gulzar continues with her preparations, the film industry and audiences alike will be keenly watching to see who steps into the role and how the film progresses.
