Sequel to Akshay Kumar’s hit Rowdy Rathore shelved for standalone cop drama

Rowdy Rathore 2 is scrapped; producers repurpose the script into a new high-octane cop drama with V. Vijayendra Prasad writing and P.S. Mithran directing, targeting a fresh cast.

Akshay Kumar in a still from Rowdy Rathore

Summary:

• Rowdy Rathore 2 has been officially scrapped; script repurposed for a new standalone film.

• V. Vijayendra Prasad is rewriting it as a high-octane cop drama; P.S. Mithran will direct.

• Casting is underway for a fresh lead; production is expected to start in early 2026.

The long-awaited Rowdy Rathore 2 seems definitely dead after three failed attempts to make it a reality. As per a report in Bollywood Hungama, producers Shabinaa Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have opted to abandon the project and use the material for a new original feature film.

Sequel's fate

This decision was allegedly influenced by Disney India, which acquired UTV Motion Pictures from Ronnie Screwvala and now owns rights to the 2012 hit Rowdy Rathore. The studio was reluctant to approve the sequel, despite having discussed it earlier.

A source told the entertainment portal that Shabinaa and Bhansali have decided to scrap the idea of Rowdy Rathore 2 altogether and repurpose the script into a standalone commercial entertainer, free from the Rowdy Rathore tag, adding that Disney's unwillingness to commit led to the decision.

ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar to return for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Rowdy Rathore 2? Here's what we know

V. Vijayendra Prasad revamps script

Screenwriting veteran V. Vijayendra Prasad is now working on substantial adjustments to the original script. The makers want to give it a new, high-octane cop drama vibe while keeping the same mass-entertainment elements that made the 2012 film successful and brought Akshay Kumar back to the top of Bollywood after some bad runs.

The new movie supposedly has acclaimed Tamil filmmaker P.S. Mithran attached at the helm. Commercially successful Tamil films directed by the filmmaker include Irumbu Thirai (2018), Hero (2019), and Sardar (2022). His next directorial effort, Sardar 2 is scheduled for release in December 2025 and stars Karthi, SJ Suryah, and Malavika Mohanan.

Casting updates

The reimagined action entertainer is currently in the casting process. According to insiders, Sidharth Malhotra was allegedly involved in the project's early discussions, although he may no longer be participating. The insider stated that the producers are currently on the fence about casting him, expressing worries about his ability to draw in viewers for an action-packed part. A younger, more marketable actor is supposedly being sought after by the production company to play the role of a heroic police officer who will spare no effort in protecting his community.

In early 2026, production is anticipated to begin on the reimagined film. The revamped concept assures a new tale with exciting action, commercial appeal, and the support of seasoned directors and writers, much to the disappointment of the original's supporters who had hoped for a sequel.

FAQs:

Q: Is Rowdy Rathore 2 happening?

A: No, producers Shabinaa Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have scrapped the sequel after three years of development.

Q: Why was Rowdy Rathore 2 cancelled?

A: Disney India, which owns the rights, was hesitant to greenlight the sequel. The makers decided to repurpose the script into a standalone action film.

Q: Who was supposed to direct Rowdy Rathore 2?

A: The original sequel did not have a confirmed director, but the revamped standalone film will be directed by P.S. Mithran.

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