Varun Dhawan to lead 'Luka Chuppi 2': Overdose of sequels or smart Strategy?

In a move that reflects the current trend of franchise-building in Bollywood, Maddock Films is reviving Luka Chuppi, but this time with a twist. The sequel to the 2019 romantic comedy that once won audiences over with its quirky take on live-in relationships in small-town India is officially in development. But Kartik Aaryan and Kriti Sanon, who brought that story to life, are not returning. Instead, Varun Dhawan and Sharvari Wagh are stepping into the spotlight.

While Varun and Sharvari have reportedly given a verbal nod, the final signing is contingent on the script, which is still being locked in. The film is expected to go on floors in 2026, and from what we know so far, Luka Chuppi 2 will veer away from its rom-com roots into supernatural comedy territory. Yes, you read that right.

A New Pairing, A New Direction

Replacing the original leads in a beloved film is always risky, but it seems Maddock Films is betting big on the fresh pairing of Varun and Sharvari. Both actors are familiar faces in the studio’s horror-comedy universe, Varun starred in Bhediya, while Sharvari’s upcoming Munjya has already generated buzz. This makes the transition to a supernatural comedy a logical, if slightly daring, leap.

Interestingly, director Laxman Utekar, who helmed Luka Chuppi, will not be directing the sequel. Instead, a close associate of his will take the reins, with Utekar staying on as a creative producer. This switch may impact the film’s tone and treatment, especially since the original's appeal came largely from its simplicity and relatable setting.

The “Sequel King” Strategy: Varun Dhawan’s Risky Bet?

What stands out in all this is Varun Dhawan’s growing association with sequels. From Judwaa 2 to Coolie No. 1, both of which were reboots of his father David Dhawan’s classics, to now Border 2, No Entry 2, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2, and Luka Chuppi 2, Varun seems to be carving a niche for himself in the sequel space.

But is it working? That’s debatable. While Judwaa 2 did rake in decent numbers, it received lukewarm reviews. Coolie No. 1 was widely panned. The actor has been facing a string of underwhelming box office results, and many are questioning whether clinging to familiar titles is the right path forward.

An interesting Reddit comment summed up the sentiment: “First Vicky did Kartik’s Luka Chuppi ka spiritual sequel with Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. Now Varun’s doing Luka Chuppi 2. He just bulldozes his way into every sequel—even after flops.” This frustration isn’t isolated; it reflects a larger fatigue among audiences.

Are Audiences Done With Sequels?

Bollywood has been heavily leaning on sequels and franchises lately. Some, like Stree 2, Raid 2, and others, have worked. Films like Heropanti 2, Yaariyan 2 haven’t. The real problem seems to be the lack of originality. Sequels often try to cash in on nostalgia without offering anything new.

And that’s where Luka Chuppi 2 finds itself at a crossroads. The first film worked because it was refreshing; it tackled a modern issue (live-in relationships) in a desi, humorous way. It felt grounded and resonated with audiences beyond the metros. Now, pivoting into supernatural territory feels like a genre jump that could go either way.

Is the supernatural angle meant to connect with the horror-comedy trend that Maddock has found success with (Stree, Bhediya)? Maybe. But will the same audience that loved Luka Chuppi’s slice-of-life charm embrace a ghostly twist? That’s the million-rupee question.

High Stakes and Higher Expectations

For Maddock Films, this could be a masterstroke or a misfire. Varun and Sharvari’s pairing is untested, the genre shift is bold, and the audience's patience with sequels is thinning. Varun, especially, needs a win, preferably one that isn’t tethered to an older title.

Sharvari, on the other hand, is on the rise with Alpha opposite Alia Bhatt and is in talks for Race 4 and Sooraj Barjatya’s next. Her inclusion could inject some freshness into the sequel, but the burden of expectation will weigh heavy.

As the film industry stands at the crossroads of innovation and repetition, one thing is clear: it’s no longer enough to slap a "2" after a title. Audiences want meaning, not just memory.

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