As the iconic film “Lakshya” celebrates its 20th anniversary with a theatrical re-release, Farhan Akhtar has once again sparked conversations about the much-anticipated sequel to the widely beloved movie “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” (ZNMD). Akhtar, who has a long-standing and successful collaboration with Hrithik Roshan, shared his insights on working with Roshan and the potential for ZNMD 2 to become a reality.
Farhan Akhtar and Hrithik Roshan have cultivated a strong rapport in the entertainment industry, consistently delivering box office hits and critically acclaimed films. Their professional journey together began with the 2004 film “Lakshya,” a film that resonated deeply with audiences and showcased both actors’ immense talent. They later reunited for Zoya Akhtar’s “Luck By Chance” in 2009, and solidified their screen partnership with the smash hit “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” in 2011. This latter film not only enhanced their on-screen chemistry but also left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
While celebrating the milestone of “Lakshya’s” 20th anniversary, Farhan Akhtar was candid when asked about the potential for another collaboration with Hrithik Roshan. Akhtar’s enthusiasm for working with Roshan again was palpable as he stated, “100%. I mean, we meet so often, we talk about this all the time, but it is important… see there is an enthusiasm to work together, there is an excitement to work together, but it is also important that the film, the story be the right one. We all keep each other in check.”
Elaborating further, Akhtar mentioned, “We’ll find the right one. So the intention is 100% there to collaborate on something, and I am very hopeful that within a year or two years, hopefully that, we’ll find something we can do.” This statement has only added to the mounting excitement and speculation surrounding a potential ZNMD sequel.
The 2011 film, “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” directed by Zoya Akhtar, is a narrative about three friends on an adventurous road trip, each choosing daring activities such as skydiving, scuba diving, and running with the bulls, among others. The film resonated with audiences for its portrayal of friendship and life-altering experiences. Its success has inevitably led to recurrent calls for a sequel. Addressing the sequel rumors, Farhan said, “We all want the sequel to happen as it’s a loved film. We are often asked about part two of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara as the audiences have owned the film. We all hope that Zoya will come up with something for the sequel.
. It’s her brainchild, so we hope.”
The desire for a sequel isn’t limited to just the fans, as Zoya Akhtar has also expressed interest in the idea. In a previous interview with ANI, she commented, “Yes, this comes up all the time and everybody is interested. The producers are interested, the actors are interested and we are interested. That movie meant a lot to us. So, if we find that soul for part two, we will make it. We don’t want to do it just for money. When the audience comes to watch the second part they will have a certain expectation and we must give it to them, otherwise they won’t be happy.”
The words from both Farhan and Zoya Akhtar suggest that while the enthusiasm and intent are there, the challenge lies in finding the right story and emotional depth that would do justice to the legacy of the original film. Given their past achievements and the strong bond within the team, fans remain optimistic that a sequel will eventually come to fruition.
Revisiting the partnership between Farhan Akhtar and Hrithik Roshan, it is evident that their joint efforts have significantly shaped modern Indian cinema. Starting with “Lakshya” in 2004, which depicted a young actor finding his purpose, to “Luck By Chance,” which explored the nuances of the film industry, and culminating in “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” a film that became synonymous with the celebration of life, their collaborations have always offered something substantial and memorable to the audience.
As “Lakshya” marks two decades since its release, fans and cinema enthusiasts celebrated not just the film but the partnership it initiated. Looking forward, the prospect of ZNMD 2 remains high on the wish list of many. Although no formal announcement has been made, Farhan Akhtar’s remarks instill hope. The commitment to finding the right story promises that if ZNMD 2 does come to pass, it will be a journey worth waiting for.
The audience’s anticipation is bound to keep growing, and until a sequel is officially confirmed, these discussions will undoubtedly keep the excitement alive. With the right narrative and the combined talents of everyone involved, ZNMD 2 could very well be on the horizon, promising another unforgettable cinematic experience.
