Veteran filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya has confirmed his next project, a romantic comedy featuring Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari Wagh in lead roles. The film, currently untitled, is generating considerable buzz as it brings together Barjatya, known for his classic family dramas, with a fresh pairing in Khurrana and Wagh.
Barjatya himself has shared some key details about the film. He revealed that the movie is set in Mumbai and that the shooting will primarily take place in the city. "We're shooting the film with them (Ayushmann and Sharvari) in Mumbai, it's a story set in Mumbai," Barjatya told PTI. He also expressed his excitement about working with Ayushmann, praising him as a "dedicated and fine actor".
The film will explore the dynamics of nuclear families in contemporary Indian society, a departure from Barjatya's previous works that primarily focused on joint families. A source revealed that "The core conflict in the film revolves around a modern couple navigating the differences between joint and nuclear family systems". This suggests a blend of Barjatya's traditional storytelling with themes that resonate with today's generation.
Ayushmann Khurrana will be stepping into the shoes of "Prem", a character synonymous with Sooraj Barjatya's films. However, this time, the character will have a modern twist, rooted in the sensibilities of 2026. According to a source, "Ayushmann is looking forward to playing Prem on the big screen. The character is based in middle-class values but will be contemporary. This is a modern take on Barjatya's universe". Sharvari Wagh, who has garnered attention for her roles in projects like "Munjya" and "Vedaa", will be playing the female lead. Sources suggest that her ability to express innocence and sensitivity on screen made her an ideal choice for the role. An industry insider stated, "The industry has been bullish about Sharvari since last year and a legendary director like Sooraj Barjatya choosing her as the heroine of his film is the biggest stamp of approval that Sharvari is one of the best new actors of India".
Adding to the anticipation, veteran actor Anupam Kher, a frequent collaborator with Barjatya, will also be a part of the film in a key role. This project marks yet another collaboration for the duo, who have worked together on numerous family dramas in the past.
The film is expected to have a six-month shooting schedule. Shooting is slated to commence in November 2025, with Sharvari Wagh joining the team in December. The makers are aiming for a theatrical release in the second half of 2026.
Barjatya admitted to feeling nervous as the shooting date approaches. "I've this nervousness before the shoot of every film. This has been there even when I made my first film, 'Maine Pyaar Kiya', it's (nervousness) still the same," he said. He further added, "As a creator, it's not about how much box office (numbers) it will do, it's about whether you're able to connect or not, with that thought or scene".
With Ayushmann Khurrana's charm, Sharvari Wagh's freshness, and Sooraj Barjatya's expertise in family dramas, this upcoming film promises to be a heartwarming and entertaining experience for audiences.
