From Dhurandhar to Heer Ranjha: Sara Arjun set to play the modern-day Heer in Sajid Ali’s musical romance?

Imtiaz Ali and Ektaa R. Kapoor’s Heer Ranjha (director Sajid Ali) eyes Sara Arjun and Rohit Saraf for leads. This modern retelling of the classic love story begins filming in summer 2026.

Sara Arjun/Instagram

It seems like we are getting close to the end of the hunt for the contemporary Heer. After the news broke on Valentine's Day that Heer Ranjha would be the title of the upcoming film from Imtiaz Ali and producer Ektaa R. Kapoor, rumours started circulating in the industry about who would play the lead roles. As per the latest reports, Sara Arjun, who shot to fame after her role in the 2025 smash hit Dhurandhar made her a household name, is reportedly in the running to star in the film.

What is the creative vision for this new adaptation of Heer Ranjha?

The new film, set to be directed by Sajid Ali—who was responsible for the 2018 cult hit Laila Majnu—is being conceived as a contemporary take on the renowned tragic love story. This project is a major milestone in the romantic universe that Ali and Kapoor created together.

Since the title was revealed on February 14, there has been a lot of curiosity in the casting process. The makers were seeking an actor who could embody both traditional purity and the relatability of today, according to sources close to the production informing Mid Day.

ALSO READ: Heer Ranjha announced: Ektaa Kapoor, Imtiaz Ali bring timeless romance back with second chapter of Laila Majnu - All you need to know

Why is Sara Arjun considered a top contender for the role?

"The team is looking for a relatively fresh face. After Dhurandhar Sara has emerged as one of the most promising young actors today. She is among the strongest names being evaluated for Heer," said an insider in the business to the tabloid.

Dhurandhar has become a benchmark for Arjun in recent months, thanks to its worldwide gross of more than ₹1200 crore. A natural for a part that demands significant emotional depth, her rise from acclaimed child artist to leading lady has been seamless.

Who is rumoured to play Ranjha, and what will determine the final casting?

Rohit Saraf is strongly linked to Ranjha while Arjun is said to be the lead for Heer. Reportedly, the results of the screen test will determine whether or not the Mismatched actor is officially cast as the male lead. The ultimate choice, according to industry sources, "hinges on the chemistry between the two leads."

Laila Majnu acquired a devoted fan base years after its first release; thus, expectations for Heer Ranjha are high.

What are producer Ektaa Kapoor’s aspirations for this collaboration?

The new project's producer, Kapoor, released a statement in which she voiced her trust in the filmmaker's intentions. She stated, "Imtiaz and Sajid have the rare ability to capture love with honesty and depth. While Laila Majnu found its audience over time and became a cult classic! Heer Ranjha is a love story that aims to transcend time and emotions. We hope to touch audiences across the Indian diaspora and beyond with our storytelling."

Similarly, presenter Imtiaz stressed that the film will aim to catch the spirit of the present while paying homage to the enduring essence of the original material. According to him, Heer Ranjha embodies the love language of this generation while remaining firmly grounded in the eternal. For him, working with Kapoor once more is like picking up where we left off: with a common emotional language.

When is production expected to begin for Heer Ranjha?

The makers have consistently made progress in pre-production as they near the end of the casting process. By the summer of 2026, Heer Ranjha will have hit the floors, so fans may get ready for filming to begin. The industry is hoping that the "poetic and immersive" experience promised in the official announcement will be matched by a score and visual palette that live up to the creative team's reputation.

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