Race 4: Harshvardhan Rane to play villain; Saif Ali Khan begins shoot in Delhi - Here's a rumour round up for the anticipated film

The anticipation for sequels, threequels, and the nth installments of hit franchises is at its peak, as 2025 is packed with them. Some are ready, many are being filmed, and even more are in the discussion stages, waiting for the bigwigs to give them the green light. One such installment that remains highly anticipated and frequently makes headlines is Race 4. Over the past several months, numerous rumors have surfaced about the movie, including speculation that the OG hero of the franchise, Saif Ali Khan, may return. However, nothing has been confirmed by the makers so far. Now, a fresh wave of rumors has emerged, claiming that Nikkhil Advani has not only found the film’s villain but has also begun shooting in the capital with Khan.

Harshvardhan Rane Roped In as Race 4 Villain?

For the unversed, Harshvardhan Rane has become the latest heartthrob of tinsel town, with the country crushing on him ever since the re-release of Sanam Teri Kasam, which has made a historic impact in theaters. Reports suggest that the actor has been receiving significant offers since then, and one of them is Race 4. Filmfare has reported that Rane is set to play the villain in the movie. Here’s everything you need to know. 

According to a Filmfare report, a source revealed, "Harsh's stupendous success with the re-release of Sanam Teri Kasam has paid off immensely. He has been receiving some big offers, one of which is the opportunity to play the antagonist in Race 4. He hasn't been finalized yet, but chances are this casting coup will come to fruition." This is exciting news, considering Harshvardhan is well-suited for action roles, and the Race franchise demands exactly that.

Also read: Race 4: Saif Ali Khan returns, Salman Khan exits; a director is on board already? Here's everything we know so far

However, the last time we heard about Race 4, Sidharth Malhotra was rumored to be joining the cast opposite Saif Ali Khan. Now, the mystery remains—will Harshvardhan join Sidharth against Saif, or will he be pitched against both Saif and Sidharth? Or has Sidharth left the project altogether? Only time will tell.

Nikkhil Advani Begins Shooting in Delhi?

A report from India Today has also claimed that Nikkhil Advani is taking the director’s seat and has already begun filming Race 4 with Saif Ali Khan in Delhi. A source stated, "Saif Ali Khan and Nikkhil Advani are working together on an exciting new project. The shoot in Delhi is currently underway, but we cannot confirm if it is related to Race 4 or something else."

However, the Filmfare report presents a completely different story, suggesting that Nikkhil Advani may not direct the movie at all, and instead, Om Raut is being considered to take the mantle. Only time will tell which of these reports turn out to be true.

Stay tuned to OTTplay for more updates on this and everything else from the world of streaming and films.

Also read: Sidharth Malhotra to pair up with Kriti Sanon for the first time in a romantic film? Details inside