The year 2026 is shaping up to be a significant time for Indian cinema, with a rich slate of films that promise not just the scale of Hollywood star power but also diverse storytelling. From mythological epics to edge-of-the-seat thrillers, movie lovers are already buzzing about what’s to come at theatres next year.
Ramayana: Part 1
At the top of the list is Ramayana: Part 1, one of the most ambitious cinematic projects ever undertaken in India. Directed with grand vision and boasting a stellar cast: Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana and Sunny Deol as Hanuman- this adaptation of the ancient epic is poised to be a defining film of 2026. With music from Oscar winners A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer and world-class visual effects, Ramayana is set to release on Diwali 2026, with Part 2 arriving in Diwali 2027.
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King
Another highly anticipated title is King, an action-packed thriller starring Shah Rukh Khan, directed by Siddharth Anand. The film has generated significant excitement, in part because it marks the debut of Shah Rukh’s daughter Suhana Khan and reunites the actor with one of his most successful directors, hinting at a blend of high-octane spectacle and emotional depth.
Drishyam 3
Fans of gripping narratives have plenty to look forward to as well, with Drishyam 3 scheduled for an October 2, 2026, release. Ajay Devgn reprises his role as Vijay Salgaonkar in this continuation of the acclaimed suspense franchise, promising new twists in the saga that captivated audiences in its earlier chapters.
Dhurandhar 2
The spy thriller Dhurandhar 2 is poised to extend the success of its predecessor with a pan-India release in multiple languages and expanded holiday-season screenings.
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Beyond these marquee entries, the 2026 lineup includes incredible films like Mardaani 3, O’ Romeo by Vishal Bharadwaj with Shahid Kapoor and Tripti Dimri, and Love & War, which is much anticipated collaboration between Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal under Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s direction.
Whether it’s mythology, suspense, action or drama, 2026 promises a cinematic year that caters to every taste and stakes a bold claim for Indian films on both national and global stages.
