Bollywood’s Unexpected Trio: Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, and Shriya Pilgaonkar
A star reunion, a fresh face, and a suspense-driven plot. Priyadarshan’s thriller is shaping up to be one of Bollywood’s biggest upcoming releases.
Priyadarshan has officially rolled cameras on his next big project, Haiwaan. The film began shooting in Kochi on August 23, with later schedules planned in Ooty and Mumbai. What makes this thriller especially intriguing is the reunion of Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan after almost 17 years. Their last outing together was Tashan in 2008, and the pairing alone has sparked plenty of buzz.
Shriya Pilgaonkar Joins the Cast
Joining them is Shriya Pilgaonkar, who continues to carve out a strong space in Bollywood after impressing audiences with Mandala Murders. While details of her role are under wraps, industry chatter suggests her character will play a pivotal part in the story, adding depth to the central conflict.
Surprises From Priyadarshan
The director hasn’t held back on the twists. Veteran actor Asrani has signed on, likely bringing a layer of warmth and wit, while Malayalam superstar Mohanlal is expected to make a special cameo, a nod to the original source material.
Adapted From a Malayalam Hit
Haiwaan is adapted from the critically acclaimed Malayalam thriller Oppam (2016), but with a Hindi twist and a grander canvas. Reports indicate that Akshay Kumar could be stepping into a darker role this time, with Saif Ali Khan anchoring the narrative as the moral opposite. If true, this would mark a bold departure for Akshay, whose mainstream image is often tied to heroic leads.
What Makes This Film Special
For audiences, the excitement lies not just in the story but in the combination of talent. Priyadarshan is known for his ability to balance tension with entertainment, and with Akshay, Saif, and Shriya leading the pack, the film already feels like a big-ticket event.
Release Timeline
The release date hasn’t been locked in yet, but insiders suggest a 2026 premiere. Until then, Haiwaan is shaping up as one of those projects that keeps fans speculating, debating, and eagerly waiting for the first look.