Last seen in Chhapaak (2020), which she co-produced with Fox Star Studios, Deepika Padukone is undeniably one of the most sought-after actresses working in Bollywood. Since her presence in a project guarantees huge buzz and a great return on investment, every top actor and filmmaker wants to work with her.
According to reports, Padukone has been approached to star alongside Telugu superstar Prabhas in his 21st film. To be directed by well-known South Indian filmmaker Nag Ashwin, the forthcoming project was announced a couple of months ago. Since then, several leading actresses’ names have been attached to it.
Fresh reports suggest that the makers are yet to finalize the female lead for the much-awaited film. A number of leading actresses are still in contention for the plum part, including Deepika Padukone. However, the only thing which is stopping the makers from sealing the deal with the Padmaavat (2018) actress is her high remuneration.
To be made on a whopping budget of ₹400 crore, the yet-to-be-tiled film will be produced by Vyjayanthi Entertainments. The pre-production work of the project is going on at a swift pace and the makers are looking at beginning production in October.
Though nothing much is known about the storyline of the film, some insiders reveal that it will have a sci-fi theme and will be shot across Europe. The project will hit the marquee in several languages, including Tamil, Telugu and Hindi.
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone is awaiting the release of Kabir Khan’s next directorial ’83 wherein she features in an extended cameo opposite Ranveer Singh. She also headlines a film by Dharma Productions, co-starring Ananya Panday and Siddhant Chaturvedi.
Mukerji parts ways with YRF’s Dhoom 4 after reported creative disagreements.
Decision said to be amicable, with Aditya Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor supportive.
Director shifts focus to Brahmastra: Part Two – Dev, expected to begin filming in 2026.
Filmmaker steps away from YRF’s action franchise
Filmmaker Ayan Mukerji has stepped away from Yash Raj Films’ (YRF) highly anticipated action project Dhoom 4, reportedly due to creative differences. According to Bollywood Hungama, Mukerji’s vision for the film did not align with the studio’s direction, prompting him to withdraw from the project.
Mukerji, who was in discussions to direct the next instalment of the hit franchise—expected to star Ranbir Kapoor—was said to have limited control over the script, which was reportedly written by Shridhar Raghavan. The director, best known for Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Brahmastra, was keen on shaping the film creatively rather than simply executing an existing plan.
A source quoted in the report said, “Ayan didn’t have much say in the screenplay and didn’t want to embark on another journey of just execution.”
Amicable parting after discussions with Aditya Chopra
Before stepping away, Mukerji is believed to have held several discussions with YRF head Aditya Chopra and actor Ranbir Kapoor. Both reportedly supported his decision, with insiders describing the split as “completely amicable.”
The director’s departure does not mark the end of Dhoom 4, as YRF plans to continue with the project under a new director. The studio may also reconsider casting options, despite earlier reports that Ranbir Kapoor had set aside dates for the film.
Focus returns to the Brahmastra universe
Following his exit from Dhoom 4, Mukerji has shifted attention back to his passion project—the Brahmastra series. The filmmaker is currently developing Brahmastra: Part Two – Dev, the sequel to the 2022 fantasy epic.
The film, initially expected to begin production earlier, is now likely to go on floors in 2026. Sources suggest Mukerji intends to expand the Astraverse with more depth in storytelling, combining elements of mythology, drama, and spectacle.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.