Celebrated filmmaker Meghna Gulzar, known for her critically acclaimed works like ‘Talvar’, ‘Raazi’, ‘Chhapaak’, and the recent ‘Sam Bahadur’, is gearing up for her next project. This time, she is reportedly teaming up with Bollywood heavyweights Kareena Kapoor Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana for a film based on real-life events.
According to a report by Pinkvilla, Meghna’s upcoming film will delve into a harrowing true incident. The project, tentatively titled ‘Daayra’, is said to be inspired by the 2022 Hyderabad rape case. The film promises to be a hard-hitting drama that will stir conversations and bring attention to the controversial matter.
A source close to the development revealed that Meghna has spent the last few years meticulously researching the subject. She has gathered strong source material to craft a compelling screenplay. The source added, “Meghna was deeply moved by the events and felt a strong need to tell this story. Kareena and Ayushmann resonated with the emotions and are eager to collaborate on this special project.”
Both Kareena Kapoor Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana have reportedly agreed to be part of the film in principle. However, the official paperwork is expected to be finalized within a week. This collaboration marks the first time the two actors will share the screen, as well as their first project with Meghna Gulzar.
Meghna Gulzar is no stranger to films based on real-life incidents. Her previous directorials, such as ‘Talvar’, ‘Raazi’, ‘Chhapaak’, and ‘Sam Bahadur’, have all been inspired by true events. ‘Talvar’ (2015) was based on the 2008 Noida double murder case, while ‘Raazi’ (2018) was adapted from Harinder Singh Sikka’s biography ‘Calling Sehmat’. ‘Chhapaak’ (2020) told the story of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal, and ‘Sam Bahadur’ (2023) depicted the life of former Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.
The source further mentioned that Meghna plans to take the film on floors by the end of 2024, with a theatrical release slated for 2025. The actors were reportedly shocked by the details of the case and are looking forward to bringing this powerful story to the big screen.
Kareena Kapoor Khan, who was last seen in the blockbuster ‘Crew’, and Ayushmann Khurrana, who delivered ‘Dream Girl 2’ last year, are both known for their versatile acting skills. Their collaboration with Meghna Gulzar is highly anticipated, given the director’s track record of creating impactful cinema.
The film, produced by Junglee Pictures, is expected to be a high-drama crime thriller. A trade source commented, “Meghna Gulzar is in advanced conversations with Ayushmann Khurrana and Kareena Kapoor Khan for the film. The project warrants the presence of actors with their calibre.”
Meghna’s ability to bring fresh pairings to the screen has been evident in her previous films. She successfully paired Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in ‘Raazi’ and Vicky Kaushal and Sanya Malhotra in ‘Sam Bahadur’. All eyes are now on ‘Daayra’ to see what magic Meghna creates with Ayushmann and Kareena.
The insider concluded, “Meghna has done all her research on the subject through the last few years and had a strong source material on place for her screenplay. She was moved by all that happened. Kareena and Ayushmann resonated with the emotions and are looking forward to team up on this special project.”
As the film industry and fans eagerly await more details, it is clear that Meghna Gulzar’s next directorial venture is set to be another thought-provoking and emotionally charged film. With a stellar cast and a compelling storyline, ‘Daayra’ is poised to make a significant impact when it hits the theatres in 2025.
