Sanjay Leela Bhansali to back Kiara Advani-starrer Madhubala biopic? Here's what we know
Sanjay Leela Bhansali will reportedly back the legendary actress Madhubala biopic, directed by Jasmeet K. Reen, chronicling her iconic career and personal struggles.
Last Updated: 05.09 PM, Mar 07, 2026
The highly-anticipated Madhubala biopic is back on track, and Kiara Advani is reportedly stepping into the role of the iconic Bollywood star. A report claimed that Sanjay Leela Bhansali will produce the film, while it will be directed by Jasmeet K. Reen. The film promises a grand portrayal of Madhubala’s remarkable life.
What's the update on Madhubala biopic?
According to Variety India, the Madhubala biopic is now being produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and stars Kiara Advani in the lead role. Though production logistics are still being ironed out, insiders say the Madhubala biopic has regained momentum and is set to go on floors later in 2026. Meanwhile, the makers are actively searching for actors to portray Dilip Kumar and Kishore Kumar. However, Hindustan Times report now claimed that Kiara is not playing Madhubala.
Addressing the rumours, the source said, “There is absolutely no truth to the reports currently circulating about Kiara Advani being cast in a Madhubala biopic produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The claims are completely baseless.” While Sanjay Leela Bhansali is reportedly enthusiastic about a biopic on Madhubala, sources clarify that reports linking Kiara Advani to the project are purely speculative, with no such development currently in progress.
What to expect from Madhubala biopic?
The untitled biopic aims to capture the extraordinary journey of Madhubala, one of Indian cinema’s most iconic stars. Beyond her illustrious film career, the story will also explore her personal struggles, her turbulent love affair with Dilip Kumar, her marriage to Kishore Kumar, and the tragedy of her death at the age of just 36.
Kiara Advani's work front
Kiara Advani is all set to be seen in Yash's much-awaited action thriller, Toxic: A Fairytale For Grown-ups. She will play an intense role named Nadia in the film, directed by Geetu Mohandas. Her character has been described as a "fearless" and complex figure, whose first appearance hints at deep emotional turmoil and hidden grief.
The film explores the darkest decline of Goa from the 1940s to the 1970s, where a powerful drug mafia operates under the guise of culture and beauty. Yash portrays a fierce and commanding character entangled in a high-stakes battle for control of the drug trade. This narrative examines power, betrayal, and the dark realities of a dangerous world where violence becomes the only way to survive.
Meanwhile, Toxic was originally scheduled for a theatrical release on March 19, the same day as Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar: The Revenge, but now it has been postponed. Toxic will not hit cinemas on June 4, 2026.
Madhubala biopic FAQs
Q: Is Madhubala biopic coming?
A: Yes. As per reports, the Madhubala biopic is in the works.
Q: Who will direct Madhubala biopic?
A: Madhubala biopic will be directed by Jasmeet K. Reen and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Q: Who will portray the role of Madhubala?
A: As per reports, Kiara Advani is likely to play Madhubala, the iconic Bollywood star.