Produced by Dharma Productions, Dostana (2008) was indeed a path-breaking film. Starring Priyanka Chopra, John Abraham and Abhishek Bachchan in principal roles, the comic-caper brought discussions about homosexuality and same-sex love in drawing rooms.
Eleven years after Dostana became a huge hit worldwide, producer Karan Johar is set to bankroll a sequel to the much-loved movie. To be headlined by Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor and debutant Lakshya, Dostana 2 will be directed by debutant filmmaker Collin D’Cunha. The latest update on the project is that the team is looking at beginning production in November. The movie is set to hit the shooting floor next month in North India.
According to a source close to the development, Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya are currently undergoing look tests. “Kartik and Janhvi sport avatars that are a departure from everything one has seen on screen so far. Filming is slated to start in the first week of November,” lets on the source.
According to reports, the first schedule of Dostana 2 will be completed in 22 days. It will take place in Chandigarh, Patiala and other locations in North India. The second schedule of the film will be shot overseas.
Talking about Dostana 2, Janhvi Kapoor had recently said, “I am excited about Dostana 2 because it is a very funny script. If you talk about path-breaking films, I feel this story will be like that.”
Apart from the look tests, actors are also busy preparing for their roles. Kartik had recently shared a picture of himself with a script on the social media. Janhvi and Lakshya were also spotted at Khoo’s old office in Khar, Mumbai. More details are awaited.
Romesh admits he’s aware of possible overexposure but says he chooses work based on gut feeling and quality.
He makes his West End debut opposite Sheridan Smith in Alan Ayckbourn’s Woman in Mind.
The play runs at the Duke of York’s Theatre from 9 December to 28 February, then in Sunderland and Glasgow in March.
Romesh will play Bill, the doctor who links Susan’s real and imagined worlds.
He balances television, radio, and stage work by turning down offers he doesn’t think he can do well.
Romesh Ranganathan says he knows the word “overexposure” follows him around and he’s decided it’s a risk worth taking. The comedian, who is making his West End debut, told the BBC he deliberately turns down roles at times but will say yes when a job feels right, putting “overexposure” and the play’s pull, plus the chance to work with Sheridan Smith, at the centre of his decision. This new stage turn comes as Romesh juggles television presenting, radio, and touring stand-up, and it is also his first proper stage role since primary school.
Romesh Ranganathan makes his first West End appearance in Woman in Mind alongside Sheridan Smith Getty Images
What does Romesh mean by overexposure?
He’s not talking theory. He’s talking experience. Romesh openly acknowledges people tell him “you’re on everything,” a phrase he quotes, not hides from. His defence, though, is practical. He asks whether the project is something he’d watch, whether he can do it justice, and yes, whether there’s a fee. That’s his filter. Plain as that.
Romesh portrays Bill the doctor linking Susan’s real and imagined worlds on stage Getty Images
Why take the West End risk with Sheridan Smith?
Because the role felt right. Romesh will play Bill, the doctor connecting Susan’s two worlds, in Alan Ayckbourn’s Woman in Mind. Sheridan Smith leads as Susan, and Romesh says working opposite her is “exciting and intimidating.” He’s honest about nerves; that’s part of the point. He wants the challenge, even if it raises his profile further.
The production runs at the Duke of York’s Theatre in London from 9 December until 28 February, followed by dates at Sunderland Empire and a run at Theatre Royal, Glasgow, in March 2026 (Glasgow 10–14 March; Sunderland 4–7 March). The revival is directed by Michael Longhurst and keeps close to Ayckbourn’s original while offering a fresh staging.
How Romesh is balancing television, radio, and theatre
Romesh fronts shows including Parents Evening and hosts a BBC Radio 2 slot, plus podcasts and tours. He’s selective, he says. He’ll keep doing varied work, including television, radio, and stage, but only when he feels it’s the right fit. If the public tires of him? He joked he might go and work in a café. For now, he’s stepping on stage.
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