Vikrant Massey steps into shelved Dostana 2, film gets fresh start under Karan Johar's banner

Karan Johar’s long-delayed project Dostana 2 appears to be back in motion with a fresh cast and timeline. Originally announced in 2019, the film faced setbacks that put its future in doubt. Now, Vikrant Massey has reportedly been roped in to lead the rebooted version of the project, alongside Lakshya, while a new female lead is still being finalised.

Dostana 2 was first positioned as a sequel to Karan Johar’s 2008 hit Dostana, starring John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra. That film combined comedy, romance, and drama, and was notable for its take—though comic—on queer identity in mainstream Bollywood. The follow-up, however, struggled with casting and production delays. Kartik Aaryan was initially signed to headline the film along with Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya, but the project was shelved amid speculation, without any official clarification.

Now, according to a report in Pinkvilla, the script has been reworked, and the film is finally moving forward. The source stated, “Dostana 2 has been in development at Dharma for a while, and the makers have cracked a perfect script that can carry the franchise forward in a progressive manner.” With Massey leading the cast and Lakshya still on board, the film will also launch a new female face.

The report further mentions that the film is being planned as a theatrical release with an emphasis on commercial elements—music, romance, humour and emotional drama. Production is expected to begin in January 2026, with a year-end release timeline. A director has not yet been finalised, but discussions are underway.

This development comes shortly after Vikrant Massey announced a break from work in December 2024, citing the need to spend time with family. Since then, the 12th Fail actor has resumed projects, including the upcoming Sri Sri Ravi Shankar biopic and Don 3, both expected to wrap by late 2025.

Meanwhile, Dharma Productions is actively lining up multiple releases. Apart from Dostana 2, the banner has Dhadak 2, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, Nagzilla, and Tu Meri Main Tera in various stages of production.

With a fresh cast and a new approach, Dostana 2 seems ready to finally move off the shelf and onto the floor.