Sara Ali Khan or Triptii Dimri? The race to star in Sooraj Barjatya’s film opposite Ayushmann Khurrana intensifies

Sooraj Barjatya, known for making iconic family films like Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, is currently finalising the cast for his next project. According to an exclusive report from Pinkvilla, Ayushmann Khurrana has been signed on to play the lead role. Now, a news outlet has disclosed that Sara Ali Khan and Triptii Dimri are being considered for the female lead opposite him.

Sara Ali Khan or Triptii Dimri to star opposite Ayushmann Khurrana

As reported by Midday, Sara Ali Khan and Triptii Dimri are the frontrunners for the leading lady role in Barjatya’s upcoming, untitled film. A source close to the project revealed, “Sara has the charm and mainstream appeal that could align with the Rajshri universe, while Triptii’s nuanced performances in films like Bulbbul and Qala make her a strong candidate to bring a layered approach to the character.”

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While Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan are already set to collaborate in an untitled spy comedy directed by Aakash Kaushik, the pairing of Ayushmann with Triptii Dimri would be a fresh one if it materialises.

The report also indicated that Sooraj Barjatya, along with the actresses, will meet in January for a look test. The final decision will be based on their chemistry with Ayushmann, which will play a significant role in the casting process.

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Ayushmann Khurrana is set to portray the modern-day Prem in this family romantic drama. A source close to the development shared, “Sooraj Ji was looking to cast someone who has an image among the family audiences, and who better than Ayushmann Khurrana to play the new-age Prem on the big screen? The duo has gelled well, and Ayushmann loved the world that Sooraj Barjatya is looking to create with his next. Sooraj Ji, on the other hand, feels that Ayushmann has the innocence and charm in him to play Prem.”

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The film is expected to be deeply rooted in Indian culture. Once the lead pair is confirmed, Barjatya will begin assembling the rest of the ensemble cast. The movie is scheduled to begin shooting in the summer of 2025, with a release set for 2026.

Also Read: Ayushmann Khurrana becomes the new prem for Sooraj Barjatya’s next untitled love story – Deets inside