Sanjay Leela Bhansali to collaborate with Dhanush for ‘mythological jungle saga’ directed by P.S. Mithran - Report

A major collaboration is in the works as Sanjay Leela Bhansali joins forces with Dhanush for a large-scale mythological drama set in a jungle. The film will be backed by Bhansali Productions and directed by P.S.

Mithran, who is known for ‘Irumbu Thirai’, ‘Hero’ and ‘Sardar’.

This project will mark Mithran’s entry into Hindi cinema and his first time working with Dhanush.According to Variety India, before this project took shape, Mithran was developing ‘Rowdy Rathore 2’ under Bhansali’s banner. When that film did not move forward, the team began exploring new ideas. After several rounds of writing and reworking concepts, they locked a story rooted in mythology with a jungle setting, which eventually became this ambitious film.

Lead role shift: Ram Charan to Dhanush

Initially, Ram Charan was being considered for the lead role. However, things did not progress, and Dhanush eventually came on board. With this untitled film, he is set to take on one of the most ambitious roles of his career, exploring a genre and scale he hasn’t attempted before.Dhanush has already made a strong mark in Hindi cinema with Aanand L. Rai’s films ‘Raanjhanaa’, ‘Atrangi Re’ and ‘Tere Ishk Mein’. This new collaboration with Bhansali is expected to push him further, offering a fresh cinematic space.

The film is expected to go on floors in early 2027.Before starting this project, Dhanush will wrap up several commitments in the South. He is currently working on D55 with Rajkumar Periyasamy and will next collaborate with Mari Selvaraj. His upcoming lineup also includes a project with ‘Lubber Pandhu’ director Pachaimuthu Thamizharasan and the sequel ‘Vada Chennai 2’. Meanwhile, his next release is ‘Kara’, directed by Vignesh Raja.After its partnership with Saregama India, Bhansali Productions has been actively developing multiple projects. These include a Madhubala biopic starring Sara Arjun and the historical drama ‘Jai Somnath’, which is based on events from 1025-1026 CE.

‘Love & War’ progress update

At the same time, Bhansali is working on ‘Love & War’, featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. Most of the filming is already complete, and the next schedule will begin in May, including a grand song shoot. The film is scheduled to release in theatres during the Republic Day weekend in 2027.