After all the speculation, delay in production, and casting changes, Dostana 2 is finally back in production. Initially announced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions as a follow-up to the 2008 blockbuster, the project has been through several challenges — from the COVID-19 pandemic to news-making exits by the lead actors.
And now, finally, there’s movement. National Award-winning actor Vikrant Massey has officially confirmed that Dostana 2 is on and will be his first project with Dharma Productions. With his impressive performances in 12th Fail, Haseen Dillruba, and A Death in the Gunj, Massey’s addition adds a new credibility and intrigue to the long-halted project.
Also still on board with the movie is Lakshya, who was initially slated to make his debut in Dostana 2. Although there have been many postponements, Lakshya is still included in the new cast. The movie was initially supposed to feature Kartik Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor together with him, but they both withdrew owing to alleged creative and scheduling issues.
Although the new female lead has not yet been officially confirmed, the industry grapevine is abuzz with Telugu superstar Sreeleela. Basking in the glory of her dance number in Pushpa 2: The Rule, Sreeleela is emerging as one of the most sought-after young actresses in South cinema. If she gets on board, Dostana 2 would be her Bollywood debut — an important crossover endeavor giving the project a pan-India sheen.
So far, Dharma Productions hasn’t officially announced the new cast or who will direct the project. Whether the movie will stick to the progressive, queer-positive themes of the original is still to be determined. But for the time being, Dostana 2 is alive and kicking — and finally shaping up.