The upcoming Bollywood thriller Haiwaan, starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, has secured a significant digital and satellite rights deal with Sony Pictures Networks India. Directed by Priyadarshan, the film is slated to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2026 and marks the reunion of Kumar and Khan after nearly two decades. The pair last appeared together in the 2008 film Tashan.
Haiwaan is produced by KVN Productions and Thespian Films, with Venkat K Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn serving as producers. According to sources, this deal is a major achievement for the production houses involved. The film is touted as an edge-of-the-seat thriller, generating considerable buzz, especially surrounding the collaboration of its two leading stars.
The Sony Pictures Networks India deal encompasses both digital streaming and satellite television rights, ensuring broad visibility for Haiwaan across the country after its theatrical release. Industry insiders suggest that this agreement is one of the largest pre-theatrical rights contracts for a Hindi film in 2026.
Filming for Haiwaan has already wrapped, and the production team has been sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses to build anticipation. The film also features Shriya Pilgaonkar and Saiyami Kher in pivotal roles. Kher described her experience working on the film as "surreal," expressing excitement about collaborating with Priyadarshan and the leading actors. Reports indicate that filming took place in locations including Kochi and Mumbai, with large-scale action sequences, including an extended chase scene in South Mumbai. In addition to the main cast, Haiwaan is expected to include several experienced performers in supporting roles.
Priyadarshan had posted a photo of Saif and Akshay at Lord's Stadium during the India-England Test match, announcing Haiwaan as his next film. While specific plot details are under wraps, some reports suggest Haiwaan is a remake of the 2016 Malayalam thriller Oppam, which starred Mohanlal.
The makers of Haiwaan are currently in discussions regarding the release date, which is expected to be announced soon.