Aaishvary Thackeray steps into the villain's shoes for Ali Abbas Zafar's next - with Ahaan Panday and Sharvari in the mix
There's a special kind of buzz when a new face signs on to play the bad guy. That's where Aaishvary Thackeray (movies and tv series) is headed - as the antagonist in Ali Abbas (movies and tv series) Zafar's upcoming action-romance, starring Ahaan Panday (movies and tv series) and Sharvari.
Big canvas. Young cast. And a director who knows how to fill a theatre. If you've seen Sultan or Tiger Zinda Hai, you get the vibe.
The film: romance at the core, action turned up
According to a source, this one is built for the big screen - romance driving the story, with action that's meant to jolt you a little. Think edge-of-the-seat, not quiet drama.
The same source hinted at a full-tilt showdown between Ahaan and Aaishvary. In their words, the clash is being set up as "big screen carnage." Sounds like Ali isn't pulling punches.
Ahaan Panday's training: five hours a day, no shortcuts
Ahaan's prep is serious. He's starting with boxing, then moving into mixed martial arts and heavy strength work. About five hours daily - the kind of grind you feel in your bones.
Here's the kicker: YRF is keeping his look completely under wraps. No teasers, no leaks. They want that first visual to hit hard when it lands.
Why this matters
Honestly, it's refreshing to see a big film rest on young shoulders. It signals trust - and a push for fresh faces to lead high-stakes stories. If it clicks, it opens doors for more like it.
And Aaishvary as the antagonist? That's a statement. Villain roles stick when they're done right. They can make careers. Or at least rewire how audiences see you.
What we know so far
- Aaishvary Thackeray plays the antagonist.
- Ahaan Panday and Sharvari lead the cast.
- Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar - expect scale and spectacle.
- Romance-led story with adrenaline-heavy action.
- Ahaan is in intense combat and strength training (about 5 hours daily).
- YRF is keeping Ahaan's look hidden for maximum impact.
The bigger picture
Here's what this could mean: a star-making turn for Ahaan if the transformation lands, and a breakout for Aaishvary if his antagonist holds the frame. Sharvari's presence adds energy - she's got the screen ease to ground a story while the action roars around it.
Maybe it's timing, but this feels like the kind of film built to bring people back to theatres - romance to root for, and a rivalry you can feel from the trailer.
For context
Ali Abbas Zafar has a track record with crowd-pleasers. If you want a quick refresher on his style and past projects, here's a primer on his filmography: Ali Abbas Zafar. And YRF's big-canvas approach needs no introduction: Yash Raj Films.
We'll update as casting details, schedule, and first-look assets drop. For now, it's simple: a fresh face-off, a secret look, and a director who likes to go big. Feels like one to watch.