Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, Raashii Khanna, Vijay Raaz: Anees Bazmee confirms cast of his next film and addresses ‘Sankranthiki Vasthunam’ remake buzz

Filmmaker Anees Bazmee is gearing up to roll his next directorial from January 20 in Mumbai. The director spoke about the yet-untitled project, confirming that it brings together Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan in key roles. Opening up about collaborating once again with Akshay Kumar in a recent interview, Anees Bazmee shared how the duo has a love of love for each other.

In a recent interaction with Avanti Films, Anees Bazmee shared, however we continued bumping into each other and our bond remained intact. When I got the story of this film and realized it would be apt for Akshay ji, I approached him. He loved the story. He’s very excited about it. We begin shooting for the film on January 20.” When asked whether the film’s title has been finalised, the director was clear in his response. “No, we haven’t thought of a title yet,” he said, adding that the team is currently focused on the shoot rather than naming the project.

Anees Bazmee heaps praise on producer Dil Raju

Anees Bazmee also spoke warmly about producer Dil Raju, recalling their long-standing association. “He has been an old friend. We were supposed to do a film with Shahid Kapoor, but it didn’t get made for some reason. Raju bhai is a very nice guy and a reputed producer down South. When our previous project didn’t materialize, I had this thought that ‘Inke liye ek film toh karni hai’. When he approached me for this film, I told him, ‘Why not?’ and signed it.”

Clarifying ‘Sankranthiki Vasthunam’ remake rumours

Addressing reports that the film is a remake of ‘Sankranthiki Vasthunam’ (2025), Anees Bazmee chose a measured tone. “Such rumours keep floating in the market. Until now, a lot has been said about me and my films. But I never give clarification, as the truth comes out eventually. The story of our film is close to the premise of ‘Sankranthiki Vasthunam’. Also, Dil Raju bhai is the producer of both the films. All I can say is that hamari film acchi hai. Mehnat poori ki hai humne.”

Star-studded ensemble cast

Sharing more details, Anees Bazmee revealed, “The film stars Akshay ji, Vidya ji, Raashii Khanna, Vijay Raaz, Zakir Hussain, Sayaji Shinde and others. Expect a lot of comedy, romance, action, songs, etc.” With a strong cast and Bazmee’s signature blend of entertainment, the film is already generating considerable buzz ahead of its shoot.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”