After ‘Devdas’ fallout Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Kareena Kapoor Khan may finally collaborate for Dhanush-led mythology adventure – Report
After years of speculation surrounding their strained professional equation, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Kareena Kapoor Khan could finally be heading towards their first collaboration. Industry buzz suggests the filmmaker has approached the actress for a pivotal role in his upcoming production starring Dhanush, a project that promises to blend mythology with an expansive jungle adventure.According to Bollywood Hungama, Bhansali is reportedly keen on casting Kareena opposite Dhanush in a role that carries equal narrative weight. While the actress is believed to be interested in the script, discussions are still underway and no official agreement has been signed yet.Reports indicate that conversations are currently focused on scheduling, remuneration and other contractual formalities before the project can be finalised. If the deal goes through, it will mark the first time Kareena and Bhansali work together, bringing an end to one of Bollywood’s longest-discussed professional differences.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s rift that began with ‘Devdas ‘
The filmmaker and the actress have shared a complicated history dating back to the early 2000s. Kareena had reportedly screen-tested for Bhansali’s acclaimed film ‘Devdas’, but the role eventually went to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The episode reportedly left Kareena disappointed, and over the years, the two never collaborated on a film despite several industry rumours suggesting otherwise.The untitled film is said to be mounted on a grand scale and is being developed as a mythology-inspired adventure set against the backdrop of dense forests. While the makers have kept the storyline tightly under wraps, reports suggest the narrative revolves around an elephant and features a strong female protagonist whose character runs parallel to Dhanush’s.Bhansali will back the project under his production banner, while filmmaker P. S. Mithran, known for directing acclaimed Tamil films such as ‘Irumbu Thirai’, ‘Hero’ and ‘Sardar’, will helm the venture. The screenplay is currently in development. Pre-production is expected to begin in November, with principal photography likely to commence in January 2027.
Busy line-ups for Kareena Kapoor Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Apart from this project, Kareena is preparing for the release of Meghna Gulzar’s crime drama ‘Daayra’, where she stars alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran. Produced by Junglee Pictures, the film explores themes of law and justice and is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on September 18, 2026. Bhansali, meanwhile, is in the final stages of completing his ambitious period romance ‘Love & War’, featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. The film is slated for a theatrical release on January 21, 2027, with its first official look expected to be unveiled soon.
