Bobby Deol set to play a ‘grey’ character in Ali Abbas Zafar’s new action‑thriller with Ahaan Panday and Sharvari
Mumbai, Veteran actor Bobby Deol is reported to have joined the cast of director Ali Abbas Zafar’s upcoming action‑thriller, in which younger stars Ahaan Panday and Sharvari will feature in lead roles.
Key details
The untitled film is described as an “action‑romance” that will bring Ahaan Panday and Sharvari together on screen for the first time.
Bobby Deol will reportedly play a pivotal “grey” or antagonist‑leaning role opposite Ahaan’s hero character.
According to sources, his character will not be a straight‑up villain, but someone in a position of authority with complex motivations and shades of grey.
Film production is expected to begin in early 2026, with a significant portion of the shoot planned abroad (United Kingdom), consistent with Zafar’s large‑scale filmmaking approach.
What this signals
This move underscores several trends in the Bollywood industry:
Deol, known for his recent negative‑leaning roles, is continuing to explore nuanced characters rather than typical hero or villain parts.
Zafar’s casting of a new generation lead pair (Panday & Sharvari) alongside a seasoned actor (Deol) is a balancing act of youthful energy and experience.
The combination of action + romance suggests the film is aiming for broad commercial appeal rather than niche arthouse territory.
What to watch
How Bobby’s “grey” character is written and portrayed, whether he leans more villainous or sympathetic.
The chemistry between Ahaan Panday and Sharvari, given this is a fresh pairing under a major banner.
Production values and scale: early reports hint at high costume, location and action ambitions.
The release timeline: since the film goes on floors in early 2026, a release in late 2026 or early 2027 seems likely.