Amar Kaushik

After the historic success of Chavva , Dinesh Vijan is collaborating with Vicky Kaushal again on another timeless epic. Titled Mahavatar , the film will be directed by Stree 2 director Amar Kaushik, and is based on the life of Chiranjeevi Parashurama. The writing work for this epic is going on in full swing, and insiders reveal that Maddock is planning to mount it on an unimaginable scale. SCOOP: Vicky Kaushal, Amar Kaushik to QUIT non-veg & alcohol for Mahavatar; begin spiritual prep for Lord Parashurama epic has exclusively learnt that both Vicky Kaushal and Amar Kaushik have decided to quit non-veg food and alcohol as a part of their prep for Mahavatar."A film like Mahavatar requires complete focus, and the duo have decided to give it all to make it a pure spectacle for the cinema-going audience. They have decided to quit non-veg food, and will start their prep for the film with a grand pooja ceremony towards the middle of next year." Amar is presently working on the pre-viz of Mahavatar , whereas Vicky is focusing on completing Love And War, which at the moment is running behind schedule. "While Amar has already given up on the food habits, Vicky has decided to do so once the shoot for Love And War is wrapped up. It's his way of showing respect to the part of Lord Parashurama." Mahavatar will go on floors towards the end of 2026 and release in 2028. It needs one year of production, followed by a 6-month post-production, as it involves lots of VFX work in building the world.

readers, get ready for a super crossover! Acclaimed director Amar Kaushik has dropped a tantalizing hint about a famous cricketer making a cameo in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU). This revelation adds an unexpected sporty twist to Bollywoods beloved supernatural world and has set fans abuzz about Thamma and beyond. #Amar Kaushik EXCLUSIVE: Amar Kaushik teases mystery cricketer cameo in MHCU Bollywood Universe set for Cricket-meets-horror twist? During his exclusive interview with , Kaushik was asked about the expanding universe, casting surprises, and whats next for fans of Stree, Bhediya, and Thamma. After discussing the story connections and his creative approach, he caught everyone off guard with a comment thats destined to be discussed everywhere, Kabhi Koi Cricketer bhi aa sakta hai agar koi cricketer acting karna chahta hai toh batao (Maybe a cricketer could also come in If any cricketer wants to act, let me know)! Kaushik, known for mixing horror, comedy, and social themes, couldnt reveal any names, but the quote has sent fans and gossip columns into a frenzy. Could cricketing icons like Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, or even legendary Sachin Tendulkar be seen battling vampires and ghosts on-screen? The directors playful openness left room for endless speculation. He explained the process of building the MHCU and keeping surprises alive for the audience, Hum log universe ki baat kar rahein hai itne saare characters hai. Kabhi kabhi aa sakte hain Shraddha, Ayushmann, Rajkummar, Varun kabhi kabhi aa sakte hain. But aayenge, jaldi aayenge. Aur cricketer bhi aa sakta hai (Were talking about building a universe So many characters! Shraddha, Ayushmann, Rajkummar, Varun all could come together anytime. And possibly a cricketer too)! Kaushik also elaborated on how item numbers, fight scenes, and Indian pop culture blend with supernatural themes, promising more crowd-pleasing moments, Indian film hai, Hindi film hai. Toh usmein gaana toh hoga hi sab aapke apne-apne favourite characters hain aur shayad ab cricketer bhi (Its an Indian film, its a Hindi film, there must be a song everyone has their own favorite character maybe now a cricketer too)! With the MHCUs success and Kaushiks knack for headlines, audiences are now speculating wildly: Which cricketer will make the leap from pitch to screen? And will their role be hero, villain, or something wilder? Stay tuned to for the latest scoop because in Amar Kaushiks universe,anything can happen, and everyone wants in!

The grand Diwali release Thamma is a part of the much-loved Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and hence, it was expected that characters from the earlier films will make it in the Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer. Way back in July, had revealed that Varun Dhawan appears in the film, reprising the role of Bhediya. We also stated that the actor shot for 6 days and the scene in question would be a visual spectacle. has now stumbled upon some fascinating details. #Thamma SCOOP: Rs. 20 crores spent on the GRAND Bhediya scene in Thamma; was shot under Amar Kaushiks supervision A source told us, The makers decided to go all out with the scene of Betaal vs Bhediya. Hence, a mind-boggling amount of Rs. 20 crores was spent just on that sequence. Producer Dinesh Vijan was clear the fight scene should have top-class VFX that should stun the viewers. After all, the scene is very crucial for the future of the universe. The source further said, Amar Kaushik, the founder and mentor of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, serves as the producer of Thamma.But for the crucial scene of Bhediya, he was present on the set to supervise. A lot was at stake; so, Amar decided to be present when the scene was being filmed. Thamma s director, Aditya Sarpotdar, was informed about it in advance and he understood Amars point of view. He was more than happy to have Amar on the set and was also more than happy to take his valuable inputs. Thamma starred Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal. The breathtaking Betaal vs Bhediya showdown left the audience in awe, blending cutting-edge VFX with Amar Kaushiks trademark storytelling flair. With Thamma now cementing the foundation for the next chapter in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, fans can expect even grander crossovers and deeper connections in the films to come.

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma recently disclosed that he had first offered the role of Malik in his 2002 gangster drama Company to Shah Rukh Khan. However, after a single meeting with the actor, Varma decided to cast Ajay Devgn instead. Ram Gopal Varma reveals Shah Rukh Khan was first choice for Company before casting Ajay Devgn In an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Varma explained, My first instinct was to cast Shah Rukh Khan. I went and narrated the story to him, and he was interested. But I somehow felt Shah Rukh has this natural body language, very energetic, hes like a live wire. The idea of Maliks character was that of a subtle guy, laid-back and cold-minded when hes thinking. I thought SRKs natural energy would go against that. To make Shah Rukh still would be an injustice to both him and the film. Varma further emphasized the difference in acting styles, stating, I think theres a performing actor and then theres an actor. Im not saying one is better than the other, but its just a different style of acting. A guy like Shah Rukh should be left to himself. I think directors trying to make him fit into a different kind of character wont work. But Ajay was naturally suited for that role, hes very calm. Thats when I decided to cast Ajay instead. I just had one meeting with SRK, and in that itself I realised it wouldnt work, but I didnt tell him. Following his decision, Varma contacted Devgn immediately after leaving Khans residence and finalized him for the role. The film also featured Vivek Oberoi, who was cast as Chandru after Abhishek Bachchan, Varmas initial choice, was unavailable due to other commitments. Company , which was the second installment in Varmas gangster trilogy, was both a critical and commercial success. It grossed Rs 25.02 crores against a budget of Rs 9.5 crores and marked Mohanlals debut in Hindi cinema. Ram Gopal Varma is gearing up to collaborate once again with Manoj Bajpayee for their next project, a horror comedy titled Police Station Mein Bhoot.Announcing the film, RGV shared an intriguing line, We run to the police when scared, but where will the police run to when they get scared? After a deadly encounter killing, a police station becomes a haunted station, making all the cops run in fear to escape the ghosts of the gangsters. The story revolves around a police station that turns haunted after a deadly encounter, forcing the officers to flee from the vengeful spirits of slain gangsters. Details about the films release and additional cast members are yet to be revealed.

Before the audience sat down to watch the grand Diwali release, Thamma , they were treated to a 60-second-long announcement promo for Shakti Shalini.The teaser confirmed that Aneet Padda would play the lead and also that it would be out on December 24, 2026. This was the date that was earlier booked for Mahavatar , starring Vicky Kaushal, directed by Amar Kaushik and produced by Maddock Films. Maddock is also the producer of Thamma with Amar serving as one of its producers and mentors. In an exclusive interview with , Amar opened up on Mahavatar and why it is his most ambitious film to date. #Vicky Kaushal EXCLUSIVE: Vicky Kaushal-starrer Mahavatar to go on floors in mid-2026; Amar Kaushik shares EXCITING details: The prep is going on for 6-7 months. Mujhe toh soch ke hi darr lag raha hai When asked if Mahavatar has been postponed, Amar Kaushik replied, Yes. The prep is going on for 6-7 months. Mujhe toh soch ke hi darr lag raha hai.We have worked on the set design, weapon design, how every character would look, etc. The scripting is done. Yet, we need more time. Vicky will finish his other commitments and after that, hell also start his preparation. Hence, we hope to go on floors by mid-next year. Amar Kaushaik continued, For me, it is a huge passion project. When I was in school in Arunachal Pradesh, there used to be a Parshuram Kund close by. I used to ask my mother who Parshuram was but I was told not to talk much about it. I was only told that he was quite hot-tempered. Hence, I was quite fascinated by the character. When I read about it later in life, I was wowed and kept wondering, Will I ever be able to make a film on this subject?. Now, I have reached a stage where I have an understanding and experience of using VFX. That gave me the confidence to pull it off. The timing is apt as Amar has just delivered Stree 2 (2024), the highest Bollywood grosser of all time. Did that also give confidence to Dinesh Vijan to entrust such a big responsibility to Amar Kaushik? Amar answered, Yes, that always happens. If you havent proved yourself, why would anyone entrust you with such responsibility? Agar aapke bade sapne hai, toh chhote sapne toh poore karo pehle (smiles). In fact, I wouldnt have taken up the film earlier in my career. Mujhe toh abhi bhi darr lag raha hai !

One of the highlights of the grand Diwali release Thamma is the special appearance by Bhediya, played by Varun Dhawan. He has become a crowd favourite; his entry got a rousing reception in Stree 2 , where he also had a cameo, and Thamma was no exception. In an exclusive interview with , Amar Kaushik opened up on Bhediya.#Amar Kaushik EXCLUSIVE: Amar Kaushik reveals why Bhediya looks bigger and khunkhar in Thamma: Our universe is expanding; we needed to give him more powers; admits Varun Dhawan is putting PRESSURE for Bhediya 2: But we have to be excited about the script Was the intention to take a different route for Bhediyas cameo compared to the one he had in Stree 2 ? Amar Kaushik replied, Yes. When we made Bhediya (2022), we could have made him bigger and stronger. But we had seen that a lot in the films of the West and I didnt want to repeat it. Also, it didnt fascinate me then. Our story was about animals saving the forest and hence, Bhediya should be like any other creature. He continued, Now that the universe is expanding, Bhediya cant remain just another beast. There was a need to give him more powers. Once he gets powers, what happens? We mulled over it and finally decided to make him bigger and more khunkhar.Even hes shocked to see himself in the mirror in that avatar, as evident by the scene in the apparel shop. But it works well as it sets the rivalry between Bhediya and Betaal. Hence, this is how we established a chain of events Jana (Abhishek Banerjee) meeting Elvis Karim Prabhakar (Sathyaraj), Alok (Ayushmann Khurrana) coming there at the same time and Elvis informing Jana about Alok is a Betaal. How did Varun react to the bigger Bhediya avatar? Amar Kaushik said, Hes very happy and putting pressure on me to make Bhediya 2 soon! And rightly so! After seeing Bhediya in a cameo in Munjya, Stree 2 and Thamma , theres now a demand to have him in a full-fledged role. When asked about its update, Amar Kaushik explained, We cant make it unless we are excited with the script, and only then can we take things forward. However, I assure you that it wont take much time now.

Before the audience sat down to watch the grand Diwali release, Thamma , they were treated to a 60-second-long announcement promo for Shakti Shalini.The film earlier starred Kiara Advani and there were reports that Aneet Padda of Saiyaara (2025) fame has replaced the former. The announcement teaser confirmed the speculations and also revealed that the next film of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will be out on December 24, 2026. In an exclusive interview with , Amar Kaushik, the mentor of the universe and also the producer of Munjya (2024) and Thamma , opened up about this film. #Amar Kaushik EXCLUSIVE: Shakti Shalini goes on floors in January 2026; Amar Kaushik explains how Aneet Padda came on board, We saw Saiyaara and knew that she perfectly Earlier, the plan was to bring 2 more films of Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, namely Bhediya 2 and Chamunda , in cinemas in 2026. When asked if the plan remains or will Shakti Shalini be the sole release of the universe next year, Amar Kaushik said, There might be just one film (from the universe in 2026). We feel that there should not be an overdose and we should not give too many films in a short period. Hence, as of now, the plan is to only bring Shakti Shalini next year. The announcement promo didnt provide any information on who would direct the film. Will he don the directors hat or Aditya Sarpotdar, who also directed Munjya and Thamma ? Amar replied, We are still in discussion and havent decided yet. When asked how Aneet Padda came on board, he answered, When we were writing the script, we realized that we needed a younger actor. Meanwhile, we saw her film Saiyaara and realized that she suits the part perfectly for that character. She heard the story and came on board. When would Shakti Shalini go on floors? Amar said, The shooting will commence in January 2026. Horror film for Amar? Amar Kaushik has tried his hand at a comedy film ( Bala ; 2019) and also at horror comedies. Would he like to try horror next? Amar Kaushik excitedly answered, Yes, I really want to. Its my desire to make a horror film in this universe. Lekin public manegi kya ? After all, ours is a horror comedy universe. In fact, making horror can be easier as you know its tropes like I can set such a mood, I can place the camera in this way, etc. Its doable and it would be interesting. In fact, I can visualize it right now as we speak. But since comedy is an important part of this universe and people would expect fun moments, then it wont be possible in this universe. He added, However, I can definitely make a horror film outside this universe. I would love to make a pure horror movie with just 1 character!

The epic clash between Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 took place yesterday, October 2. The former stars Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra and Rohit Saraf, and is a fun-filled entertainer. Many industry figures and even moviegoers felt that a film of this kind was ideal for a Diwali release. Moreover, the Festival of Lights is just three weeks away and hence, many opined that the makers, Dharma Productions, should have waited and brought their film on October 21. However, by doing so, they would have faced another clash, this time with Thamma.It stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Paresh Rawal and Nawazuddin Siddiqui and is part of Dinesh Vijans very successful horror comedy universe. In an interview with The Times of India, Varun Dhawan explains why he and producer Karan Johar were not in favour of clashing their film with Thamma.Varun Dhawan admits Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari skipped Diwali release to avoid clashing with Thamma: Karan Johar and I are very good friends with Dinesh Vijan, Amar Kaushik; you dont want to go there, if someone is your friend Varun Dhawan said, Our date, which we were coming on, got moved due to many reasons. We were trying to get the best film we could. We made our best film. In a line, Param Sundari, Baaghi 4, Jolly LLB 3 and The Conjuring: Last Rites did well. We want a run of at least 2-3 weeks. Varun continued, Another good period for us to release would have been Diwali. But I'm very good friends with Dinoo (Dinesh Vijan) and Amar Kaushik. I've done Bhediya and Badlapur with them. Karan (Johar) is close friends with them. And you don't want to go there, if someone is your friend." He also said, Now this date is good with Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra. Also, this is not my decision. It's the production's decision. But the date is so big that they said chalo , we will have enough space. Also, we are not a big film like Kantara.Nor are we under the delusion of that.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], January 2 : After the massive success of 'Stree 2' the makers have announced the release date of the third instalment of this horror-comedy film which starred Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor in the lead role. It will be directed by Amar Kaushik. The film is slated to release in 2027. As per the announcement by Maddock Films, Stree 3 is all set to hit the big screens on August 13, 2027. Along with this, the official production studio of Maddock Supernatural Universe (MSU) has also announced an expansive slate of upcoming films including the highly anticipated 'Shakti Shalini', 'Bhediya 2' and 'Chamunda.' The fans have been eagerly waiting for the announcement of Stree's third instalment which made the horror-comedy a profitable genre in Bollywood. Speaking about this ambitious announcement, director Dinesh Vijan, the visionary behind the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, said, "Our mission at Maddock has always been to innovate and entertain. We've crafted compelling characters that resonate with audiences, grounded in India's rich culture and heritage. This deep connection has made our stories not just relatable, but also meaningful. Also, with a passionate and devoted fanbase, we're now setting the stage for something even bigger: a cinematic universe that brings unforgettable characters and their stories to life like never before. We can't wait to take audiences on this journey through 2028 and beyond - and we are just getting started!"Taking to their Instagram handle, Maddock Films wrote, "Dinesh Vijan presents the genre defining lineup of #MaddockHorrorComedyUniverse 8 theatrical films that will take you on a wild ride of laughter, spooks, thrills and screams!"View this post on InstagramA post shared by Maddock Films (@maddockfilms)The Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao-starrer 'Stree 2', which faced a Box Office clash with 'Khel Khel Mein' and 'Vedaa' on August 15, quickly became the top choice for moviegoers, surpassing the other two by a huge margin.The film stars Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee, and Aparshakti Khurana. Actor Varun Dhawan also had a special cameo in the film. Earlier, in a conversation with ANI, the 'Stree 2' director Amar Kaushik expressed his happiness over the success of the film and opened up about the next installment of the film and if the viewers will see Akshay Kumar in 'Stree 3' who played the cameo in the film. He shared how long it will take to make 'Stree 3' and if Akshay Kumar is going to be part of the project. "I think it (Stree 2) was made in six years from the first (film). However, it won't take six years; it will take at least three years." The film is also being hailed for Akshay Kumar's special appearance. The director opened up about casting him in 'Stree 3' and said, "It depends on the script. If the story demanded he would be seen, otherwise he won't get it."Expressing his happiness over the success of the film, he shared, "I am thankful for the audience and those who watched the film and shared messages. Have to put in a lot of hard work and the credit goes to everyone, including the stars, producers and technicians."'Stree' was released in 2018 and was declared a hit. It stars Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, alongside Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee. Along with Stree 3 announcement, the makers have also announced the release dates of other horror comedy films- Thama (releasing on Diwali 2025), Shakti Shalini (on 31st December 2025), Bhediya 2(14th August 2026) , Chamunda (4th December 2026), Maha Munjya (24th December 2027), Pehla Mahayudh (11th August 2028) and Doosara Mahayudh (18th October 2028).

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 13 : Film producer Dinesh Vijan and director Amar Kaushik are set to raise the bar once again with the announcement of their magnum opus, 'Mahavatar', which will feature Vicky Kaushal essaying the legendary warrior sage Chiranjeevi Parashurama.The film, which draws inspiration from Indian mythology, is slated for release in cinemas on Christmas 2026.Following the immense success of their previous collaboration 'Stree 2', Vijan and Kaushik have teamed up once more for a highly anticipated project that delves into the ancient mythology of India.'Mahavatar' will bring to life the story of Chiranjeevi Parashurama, one of the seven immortal figures in Hindu lore, portrayed by Vicky Kaushal in what promises to be a career-defining role.The announcement of 'Mahavatar' comes on the heels of Vicky Kaushal's success in films like 'Zara Hatke Zara Bachke' and his upcoming project 'Chhaava', based on the life of Maratha King Sambhaji Maharaj.The first look for 'Mahavatar' was released on November 13, with a striking poster that showcases Vicky Kaushal in character.In his post, Kaushal wrote, "Dinesh Vijan brings to life the story of the eternal warrior of dharma! Vicky Kaushal stars as Chiranjeevi Parashurama in #Mahavatar, directed by Amar Kaushik. Coming to cinemas - Christmas 2026!"The film's story revolves around the figure of Parashurama, one of the seven Chiranjeevis or immortal beings in Hindu mythology.Known for his wisdom, strength, and warrior spirit, Parashurama is revered as both a sage and a fierce protector of dharma (justice).In various mythological texts, including the 'Mahabharata' and 'Ramayana', Parashurama is depicted as an avatar of Lord Vishnu, entrusted with the task of ridding the earth of corrupt rulers and upholding righteousness.Produced by Maddock Films, the script of the movie is written by Niren Bhatt.'Mahavatar' is all set to hit cinemas in Christmas 2026.