Bollywood powerhouse Dharma Productions is preparing to unveil its next large‑scale creature thriller starring Rajkummar Rao, under the aegis of Karan Johar and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sandeep Modi. The November 2025 shoot is expected to mark the onset of production for the ambitious franchise, setting the stage for its slated 2026 release.

Casting & Compensation

Rajkummar Rao has officially signed the project for a record fee. Sources confirm the actor has secured ₹12 crore for the film—his highest remuneration to date—demonstrating the studio's faith in his box‑office appeal and creative range. Rao is reportedly enthusiastic about collaborating with Karan Johar on a genre unlike anything he has undertaken before .

Production Timeline & Creative Vision

Pre-production is currently underway, with the shoot scheduled to commence in November 2025 and follow a start‑to‑finish schedule, ensuring a streamlined, focused approach. The film is set to carve out a niche in the rapidly expanding creature‑film genre, joining Dharma's recently launched “creature universe,” which includes the Kartik Aaryan‑starrer Naagzilla.

Franchise Ambitions

With substantial backing, the film aims to evolve into a multi‑part franchise—a strategic move in line with modern cinematic universes. Dharma Productions intends to produce multiple installments, starting with the 2025 shoot and leading to a 2026 theatrical rollout .

Director’s Profile

Sandeep Modi, praised for his work on the series Aarya and The Night Manager, will command his first major Hindi theatrical venture with this film. His transition from digital content to a large‑budget studio project marks a significant turning point in his career, mirroring Karan Johar’s commitment to fresh, bold storytelling through emerging talents.

Industry Context

This creature thriller marks Dharma's second major entry into the genre following Naagzilla, which begins its shoot in the second half of 2025. It suggests a deliberate pivot towards high-concept content-driven franchises, tapping into global trends and evolving audience expectations.

Summary

Rajkummar Rao's ₹12 crore signing for Karan Johar and Sandeep Modi's creature thriller underlines Dharma Productions' leap into franchise-based, genre-led cinema. With production slated for late 2025 and a theatrical release in 2026, the film signals the studio’s evolving strategy—backing proven acting prowess, digital-native directorial vision, and high-concept universe building.