Anil Sharma

Anil Sharma went on a high with Gadar 2 (2023). A sequel to the all-time blockbuster Gadar Ek Prem Katha (2001), the sequel, starring Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel and Utkarsh Sharma, was also a record grosser. The filmmaker then followed it up with a family entertainer, Vanvaas (2024), starring Nana Patekar and Utkarsh Sharma. It didnt work at the box office as expected, though it managed to touch the hearts of the viewers due to its subject and mass-appealing treatment. Exactly a year after Vanvaas , Anil Sharma is now all set to take his next film on floors, has learned. EXCLUSIVE: Gadar director Anil Sharmas next titled Arjun Naga; to feature Utkarsh Sharma fighting multiple villains A source told , Anil Sharmas next is titled Arjun Naga.It stars his son Utkarsh Sharma in the leading role. This would be Anil and Utkarshs fifth film together after Gadar Ek Prem Katha, Genius (2018), Gadar 2 and Vanvaas.The source further said, Just like other films of Anil Sharma, Arjun Naga will be a wholesome entertainer and will have action, emotion, comedy and drama in ample doses. And of course, it would also have a soulful and catchy soundtrack. Utkarsh will be presented in his massiest avatar to date and like never before. Thats not all. There are multiple antagonists in the film and Utkarsh will be shown fighting them. The source also said, Anil Sharmas biggest strength is that he knows the pulse of the audience. His films appeal not just to the multiplex audience but also to the masses and the lowest common denominator. Hence, his films are well-received across the country. Arjun Naga is on the same lines. The source said, Besides Utkarsh, the rest of the casting is underway. Once things fall in place, Anil Sharma is expected to make an official announcement. The film is expected to go on floors in early 2026.

Producer Deepak Mukut is extremely miffed with director Anil Sharma for saying that the sequel to the Deols family film Apne cannot be made without the patriarch of the family. Apne producer Deepak Mukut miffed with Anil Sharma for calling off Apne 2: He is not authorized to make such a rash statement Affirmed Deepak Mukut, On the contrary, Apne must be made now, more than ever before. We were working on the project with Dharam ji. Now Sunny (Deol) and I are going to work on Apne as a homage to Dharam ji. He will be there in the project in spirit. Apne featured Dharam ji with Sunny and Bobby. Apne 2 will also have Sunnys son Karan in stellar role. I will be sitting down with Sunny over this as soon as the mourning period finishes. Mukut is surprised and annoyed at Anil Sharmas announcement on Apne 2 being called off afterDharam jisdeath. He is not authorized to make such a rash statement. I wonder why he said this. He denies having made such a statement. But how can he be quoted on something so sensitive if hedidntsay it? It is not Anil Sharmas call to go ahead with the project or not. It is up to Sunny and I to take the project ahead and we are going ahead full throttle. We owe it to Dharam ji and his fans all over the world. Since Anil Sharma feels the project cannot move ahead without Dharmaji, would Deepak Mukut consider replacing the director in Apne 2 ? It is a possibility. I am not ruling it out. We may have a new director. That is not important. The important thing is, we are going ahead with Apne 2 as a homage to Dharamji with Sunny, Bobby and Karan Deol.

The news of Dharmendras death has not only left a deep void for his fans, but it has also brought an abrupt end to one of Bollywoods most nostalgic projects. Director Anil Sharma has confirmed that Apne 2 a film meant to unite three generations of the Deol family will now never be made. Apne 2 cancelled after Dharmendras demise confirms Anil Sharma: Without Dharamji, its impossible to make the sequel Dharmendra, 89, died on November 24 after battling prolonged illness. He had been discharged from Mumbais Breach Candy Hospital just days earlier and was being monitored at home when his condition worsened. Anil Sharma, who had been preparing to direct Apne 2 , admitted that the film cannot go ahead now. Speaking to Hindustan Times, he said, Apne to apno ke bina nahi ho sakti. Without Dharamji, its impossible to make the sequel. Everything was on track and the script was ready, but he left us. Some dreams remain unfulfilled. Without him, its not possible! The sequel was planned as a continuation of the 2007 family drama Apne , with Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Karan Deol leading the narrative. Despite being announced years ago, the film never began shooting. Sharma and Dharmendra shared a working relationship spanning multiple films, including Hukumat, Elaan-E-Jung, Farishtay, Tahalka, and Apne. Their reunion with Apne 2 was meant to be another emotional chapter in their partnership one that now remains unfinished. Dharmendras last film to release will now be Ikkis , directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda. The film arrives in cinemas on December 25, 2025, exactly a month after the actors passing. On Monday, the makers shared a tribute poster and wrote, Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations. Dharmendra ji, an emotional powerhouse as the father of a 21-year-old immortal soldier. One timeless legend brings us the story of another. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday condoled the veteran actors death, calling his passing the end of an era in Indian cinema. In a post on X, the Prime Minister described the legendary star as an iconic figure whose versatility and screen presence left a deep imprint on generations of filmgoers. He said Dharmendra brought charm and depth to every role, making him one of the most beloved actors in Indian film history. More Pages: Apne 2 Box Office Collection

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 4 : 'Gadar' fame film directorAnil Sharma expressed his grief over the passing away of veteran actor-directorManoj Kumar who passed away early Friday at the age of 87. The veteran actor and filmmaker breathed his last today at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai after battling a long illness.In a conversation with ANI, Anil Sharma said, "After waking up in the morning, I read this sad news. He had so much knowledge, visulaisation...everytime I met him there was something to learn..now everything has gone..Whenever I get a chance, I used to spend some time with him and whenever I went, he used to narrate a lot of things, I regret why did I not tape it all..."He added that he always wanted to work withn him, "When I came in the film industry, I wanted to work with BR Chopra and Manoj Kumar. Although I got a chance to work with Chopra sahab, unfortunately never worked with Manoj Kumar sahab...but he would always say, 'tum mere assistant hi to ho'"Recalling what he learned from the late actor, Sharma shared, "I always used to ask him about how to create a great film music and he would say 'gana jab karo gaane mein ghus kar karo....aesa karoi ki gaana ithihaas ban jaaye...'The late star was known for acting and making films with patriotism and he was given the name Bharat Kumar.The ace director is also known for his iconic patriotic films and he said, "Jo andar hoga vo bahar niklega ab Bharat mein rehta hu to Bharat se pyar hai isliye Bharat Kumar se bhi bahut pyar hai..." "This is my tribute to him. I just pray that his family and fans get the strength to bear this loss. Om Shanti," he concluded.Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, expressed his deep sorrow in a statement, describing the loss of Manoj Kumar as a significant blow to Indian cinema."With the demise of veteran actor and directorManoj Kumar, we have lost a great personality in Indian cinema. His films instilled patriotism and Indian social values, making the name 'Bharat Kumar' truly meaningful," he said.Fadnavis praised Kumar for his influential films like Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, and Upkaar, which celebrated India's culture, unity, and national pride.Kumar had been struggling with liver cirrhosis and other health complications.His son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that his last rites would be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Pawan Hans in Vile Parle, Mumbai.Political leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among others, have paid tribute to the late actor.PM Modi praised Kumar as an "icon of Indian cinema," whose films continue to inspire national pride. Other prominent figures, such as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AAP's Arvind Kejriwal, also expressed their condolences.Kangana Ranaut, BJP MP and actress, highlighted Kumar's significant role in fostering patriotism through his cinematic work, and said, "He raised the sentiment of patriotism among the countrymen."Kumar's legacy, recognized with prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, will continue to influence future generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 5 : 'Gadar' fame director Anil Sharma's next film 'Vanvaas' will be released in theatres on December 20. Ahead of the film's release, the ace director talked about his film and shared his experience of working with veteran actor Nana Patekar.The film redefines the meaning of family, emphasizing that true bonds are not always forged by blood but by love and acceptance. It stars Nana Patekar and Utkarsh Sharma in the lead roles.In a conversation with ANI, Anil Sharma shared what inspired him to make the film. "I did what I could but it's not even two per cent of what our parents did for us. Anyway I feel, there were many moments in which we could do a lot but couldn't. So there is a vacuum. To fill that, my conscience always wanted to make a film about it.""As a filmmaker, you also have the responsibility and want to do something. I wanted to do this film. Leaving the commercial angle, I wanted to do something as a filmmaker. Definitely, 'Gadar 3' was to be expected after 'Gadar 2', or some bigger action film, but as a director, you have some responsibility and wish. I wanted to do this film as it is a family movie," he added. While sharing the message given by the film, he shared, "Now there are nuclear families. Every house is a vanvaas, seniors are living like vanvaaasi. Through this film, I want to convey, "Pita ka karm hah bache ko palna and bacho ka dharm hah baap ko sambhalna""I feel that no explanation can outweigh parental love. That is why I wanted to make such a film."On working with Nana Patekar, he said, "When I read this story, I decided to approach Nana, knowing he would say yes. I couldn't pick any random story. I had only two choices. Either I take on comic subjects like Welcome and Housefull, which may be multi-starrers, or he may not come. The second option is to centre the plot around Nana. It should be performance-oriented and have depth. That's why I took the story and went to him. He is still a story enthusiast."Nana Patekar is an established name and he has worked in numerous films. He shared his experience of working with a young talent Utkarsh Sharma and appreciated him for his acting skill and dedication towards his craft."There is no scope for fear. He knows what he is doing. Not even one line was layered from the script. He learned the script by heart. As a co-actor, it is my responsibility that whenever he does his scene, I should never give up. Nor, I get tired neither did he. There is no senior-junior between us. A mountain is made of every type of stone be it small or big doesn't matter. He is so natural. He prepares but it is not shown on the camera as he does everything effortlessly. There is a difference between being natural and performing and he is a natural actor."Utkarsh added, " Nana believes in preparation and that's what I learned from him. And I believe the same. I learned a lot from him. Whatever I learned in acting schools and other institutions, I saw the application of it in Nana Patekar's acting. Sir did a lot of theatre and I could see it all in his preparation. He is like a doctor. He knew when the actor was nervous or when he was facing problems. He also supports other artists on set."Recently, the makers unveiled the trailer of the film. Speaking about Vanvaas, Sharma said earlier, "This film is deeply personal to me, as it explores themes of love, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a family. Nana Patekar, Utkarsh, Simrat, Rajpal Yadav, and others have brought unmatched depth and authenticity to their roles. I can't wait for audiences to witness their journey on the big screen."Adding his perspective, Nana Patekar shared, "Vanvaas is not just a story--it's a reflection of emotions we often bury deep within ourselves. Playing this character was like peeling back layers of my own understanding of family, honor, and belonging. It's a film that speaks to the soul, and I believe audiences will find a part of their own journey in it."A Zee Studios Worldwide release, Vanvaas hits the theatres on 20th December. Simrat Kaur is also a part of the project.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 5 : After the immense success of 'Gadar 2', celebrated director Anil Sharma is all set to release his next film, 'Vanvaas', on December 20.Featuring a stellar cast including Nana Patekar and Utkarsh Sharma in the lead roles, the film promises to redefine the essence of family, emphasising that love and acceptance often outweigh the traditional bonds of blood relations.Ahead of its theatrical release, the makers unveiled a gripping trailer that has sparked significant excitement among audiences.Directed, produced, and written by Anil Sharma, Vanvaas takes viewers on an emotional journey that delves into themes of sacrifice, love, and the true meaning of family.The film is poised to resonate deeply with audiences, as it mirrors the universal dynamics of familial relationships and the personal sacrifices one makes for their loved ones.Speaking about his decision to join the project, veteran actor Nana Patekar shared insights into his approach to choosing roles."Whenever I go to watch a film, especially during school days, if I identify with the characters on screen, then the film feels personal. It feels like the story belongs to us. This is the kind of film Vanvaas is," he said in an interview with ANI.He added, "The identification will be so strong that it feels like the story of every home. When I first heard the story, it resonated with me deeply. As a normal person, it pleased me. I loved it. There's nothing extraordinary, just the need to remember our own past experiences and bring them to life."Patekar further praised Anil Sharma's unique storytelling abilities, highlighting the director's knack for turning the smallest of details into pivotal narrative elements."He has an incredible ability to take something as simple as a coffee presentation and turn it into a meaningful moment. His attention to detail is exemplary, and that's what makes his direction so impactful," Patekar added.For director Anil Sharma, Vanvaas holds a special place. In an earlier interview, Sharma explained that the film was deeply personal to him, as it explores themes of love, sacrifice, and family bonds."This film reflects emotions that we often keep buried deep inside ourselves. It's not just a story but a journey into understanding the essence of family, honour, and belonging," said Sharma.He also praised the exceptional performances of the cast, which includes Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat Kaur, Rajpal Yadav, and others."Nana Patekar, Utkarsh, Simrat, and Rajpal Yadav have brought an unmatched depth and authenticity to their roles. I'm excited for the audience to witness their performances on the big screen," Sharma added.Nana Patekar shared his personal experience of playing his character in Vanvaas. "The character I portray in Vanvaas is more than just a role; it's a reflection of emotions we often hide within ourselves. Playing this character felt like peeling back layers of my own understanding of family, honour, and belonging. It's a film that speaks directly to the soul, and I believe the audience will find pieces of their own life in it," he said.The film is expected to strike a chord with viewers, as its themes of love, sacrifice, and the importance of emotional connections over blood ties are sure to evoke a strong response.Set against the backdrop of family dynamics, 'Vanvaas' is a poignant narrative about rediscovering one's roots and the complexities of human relationships.The film is set to be released on December 20 and is eagerly awaited, with a growing sense of anticipation among fans and critics alike. Produced by Zee Studios Worldwide, Vanvaas promises to be a powerful emotional journey, and its trailer has already stirred a wave of excitement.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 2 : 'Gadar' fame director Anil Sharma's next film 'Vanvaas' will be released in theatres on December 20.Ahead of the theatrical release, the makers on Monday unveiled the trailer of the film, which stars Nana Patekar and Utkarsh Sharma in the lead roles.Directed, produced, and written by Anil Sharma, the film redefines the meaning of family, emphasizing that true bonds are not always forged by blood but by love and acceptance.Speaking about Vanvaas, Sharma said, "This film is deeply personal to me, as it explores themes of love, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a family. Nana Patekar, Utkarsh, Simrat, Rajpal Yadav, and others have brought unmatched depth and authenticity to their roles. I can't wait for audiences to witness their journey on the big screen."Adding his perspective, Nana Patekar shared, "Vanvaas is not just a story--it's a reflection of emotions we often bury deep within ourselves. Playing this character was like peeling back layers of my own understanding of family, honor, and belonging. It's a film that speaks to the soul, and I believe audiences will find a part of their own journey in it."A Zee Studios Worldwide release, Vanvaas hits the theatres on 20th December. Simrat Kaur is also a part of the project.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 11 : The first song from the upcoming film 'Vanvaas', titled Yaadon Ke Jharokhon Se, has been released. Sung by Shreya Ghoshal and Sonu Nigam, the romantic track stars Utkarsh Sharma and Simrat Kaur and shows the on-screen chemistry between the two actors. The music of Yaadon Ke Jharokhon Se is composed by Mithoon, with lyrics written by Sayeed Quadri. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Zee Music Company (@zeemusiccompany)The makers recently released the teaser of the film, which is quite intriguing."Kuch kahaaniyann le jaati hai humein apnon ke kareeb!This festive season, brace yourselves for a rollercoaster ride of emotions," the makers captioned the teaser.The teaser shows Nana Patekar and Utkarsh Sharma in transformative roles. Their powerful performances redefine familial bond, bringing raw emotion and intensity to the screen.Starring Nana Patekar, Utkarsh Sharma and Simrat Kaur Vanvaas is written, produced and directed by Anil Sharma and will be released worldwide by Zee Studios. The film will be a Christmas release and will hit the theatres on December 20th.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 21 : Filmmaker Anil Sharma, best known for directing 'Gadar' and 'Gadar 2', is coming up with a new film titled 'Vanvaas', which will be headlined by Nana Patekar and Utkarsh Sharma.On Monday, the makers unveiled the first look of Nana Patekar and Utkarsh and the release date of the film.The movie will hit the theatres on December 20.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Zee Studios (@zeestudiosofficial)Sharing the details, Zee Studios on Instagram wrote, "Iss Christmas, apno ko pehchaniye. Anil Sharma, brings to you his next emotional rollercoaster ride! #Vanvaas releasing 20th December, in cinemas near you."Recently, in an interview with ANI, Anil Sharma got candid about the shooting location of the film."We have done the shooting in Varanasi and Shimla. The best part of 'Vanvas' is the scenes of Nana Patekar and Utkarsh and their chemistry," he said, "Ramayana and Vanvaas is a different take on the same where kids make their parents take exile. Kalyug Ka Ramayana jaha Apne hi Dete Hai Apno ko Vanvaas," Anil Sharma said in a press note shared by the film's team.Umesh Kr Bansal, Chief Business Officer at Zee Studios, said, "We are thrilled to back such an extraordinary project. Vanvaas offers a fresh take on modern-day family dynamics, and we are confident it will deliver a truly unique experience for the audience."Written, produced, and directed by Anil Sharma, 'Vanvaas' will be a Zee Studios Worldwide Release.

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], October 20 : Star Sunny Deol rang in his 67th birthday on the sets of his upcoming film 'Jaat'. Interestingly, directors like Raj Kumar Santoshi, Rahul Rawail and Anil Sharma specially travelled to Hyderabad to celebrate Sunny's birthday. On Sunday, Sunny took to Instagram and thanked everyone for making him feel special on his birthday. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Sunny Deol (@iamsunnydeol)"It was a #Jaat-tastic Birthday! Thank you to my wonderful colleagues , my Director, Producers, Co-Actors , crew for this beautiful celebration. @dongopichand @mythriofficial @peoplemediafactory @randeephooda @vineet_ksofficial @reginaacassandraa @doprishipunjabi A big thank you to my friends @anilsharma_dir #RajKumarSantoshi #RahulRawail @anurag_singh_films for coming down to Hyderabad and all the way to my set, truly felt special," he shared. "Pleasant surprise was the gesture by the single screen exhibitors (backbone of the film industry) who came from their towns and cities and we spoke about our relationship that has lasted for so many decades between my films and single screens and the audiences. Really felt nostalgic at you all sharing stories from Ghayal, Ghatak,Border, Gadar and Betaab days and craze Indian cinema has had specially in our towns and non metro cities. Really grateful for you all for taking time and visiting me here and celebrating with me," Sunny added. Sunny also shared pictures from the birthday celebrations. You can also spot actors Randeep Hooda and Vineet Kumar cheering for Sunny as he cut his birthday cake. On October 19th, the film's first-look poster and the film's official title Jaat were unveiled. Directed by Gopichand Malineni and produced by the Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory, 'Jaat' aims to be a cinematic experience filled with high-octane action and gripping drama.The first look poster features Deol in a commanding and intense pose, perfectly setting the stage for the film's dynamic narrative.Sunny Deol, renowned for his powerful performances and magnetic screen presence, is collaborating with Malineni, a director acclaimed for seamlessly blending intense action with compelling storytelling.The cast of 'Jaat' also includes Saiyami Kher, and Regina Cassandra. The film is backed by leading production companies. The music is composed by the acclaimed Thaman S, while Rishi Punjabi takes charge of cinematography.Navin Nooli will oversee editing, and Avinash Kolla will be responsible for production design. Furthermore, the film's action sequences, choreographed by Anl Arasu, Ram Laxman, and Venkat, promise to deliver breathtaking stunts that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.