Meghna Gulzar's 'Daayra' Exclusive: Kareena and Prithviraj Sukumaran's First Look Is Here!

Bollywood's 'Daayra' of Destiny: Kareena and Prithviraj Unite for Meghna Gulzar's Next Masterpiece

In a move that has sent ripples of excitement across the film industry and captivated fans, Bollywood royalty Kareena Kapoor Khan and Mollywood's leading man Prithviraj Sukumaran have officially begun shooting for their highly-anticipated film, 'Daayra'. Directed by the visionary MeghnaGulzar, this crime drama isn't just a film—it's a confluence of extraordinary talent, and early glimpses from the set hint at a project that promises to be nothing short of a cinematic event.

A Dream Collaboration: The Perfect Storm of Talent

'Daayra' marks a significant first for all three powerhouses involved. It’s the first time Kareena Kapoor Khan, a veteran with 25 years in cinema, is being directed by the critically acclaimed Meghna Gulzar. It's also the first time Bollywood's Bebo will share screen space with the versatile and intense Prithviraj Sukumaran.

This unique combination has a special buzz around it. Meghna Gulzar, known for her masterful storytelling in films like Talvar and Raazi, has a knack for translating complex, real-world issues into gripping on-screen narratives. Her films are not just stories; they are mirrors reflecting society's often uncomfortable truths. With 'Daayra', co-written by Yash and Sima, she is set to explore the "blurred and crossed lines" of crime, punishment, and justice.

Why 'Daayra' is a Game-Changer

The film's behind-the-scenes footage and social media posts have already created a stir. Kareena Kapoor Khan shared a glimpse of "Day 1" of her 68th film, expressing her excitement to be working with Meghna and Prithviraj. Prithviraj, too, posted about the new journey, describing it as a story that "challenges and excites in equal parts."

What makes 'Daayra' a must-watch goes beyond its stellar cast and director. The film is being produced by Junglee Pictures, a banner known for its powerful and fearless narratives, having previously backed Meghna Gulzar's Talvar and Raazi. This reunion promises a film with substance, one that will not shy away from confronting "topical and diabolical realities unfolding in society today."

• Kareena Kapoor Khan's Intense Role: After a celebrated 25-year career, Kareena is poised to deliver a fierce and powerful performance. Her enthusiasm for the film's "bold, thought-provoking narrative" suggests a character unlike any she has played before.
• Prithviraj Sukumaran as the Police Inspector: Prithviraj, who has an authoritative and dramatic screen presence, is set to portray a police inspector. This role is a perfect fit for an actor who consistently brings raw intensity to his performances.
• Meghna Gulzar's Unflinching Vision: Following the success of Sam Bahadur, Meghna's next venture promises to be another gripping tale. Her ability to craft narratives that are both compelling and demand telling will ensure 'Daayra' is a powerful cinematic experience.

Anticipation Soars: A Cinematic Experience Awaits

While the official plot details are still under wraps, the film's title, "Daayra" (meaning circle or boundary), hints at a narrative where characters must confront the moral and ethical boundaries of their world. As the actors dive deep into their roles, and the creative team works its magic, 'Daayra' is shaping up to be one of the most significant and talked-about films of 2026.

Keep an eye out for more updates on this landmark collaboration. 'Daayra' is not just a film; it’s an artistic statement, and it’s one that movie lovers everywhere should be ready to witness.

Meghna Gulzar: Weaving Powerful Narratives on Screen - A Biography and Filmography!

Meghna Gulzar is not just the daughter of legendary poet and filmmaker Gulzar and veteran actress Raakhee; she has carved her own distinct identity in Bollywood as a director known for her sensitive storytelling, powerful narratives, and ability to tackle complex social issues with nuance and depth. This article delves into the biography and filmography of Meghna Gulzar, tracing her journey from her formative years to her impactful contributions to contemporary Indian cinema.   

Early Life and Education: Growing Up Amidst Creative Giants

Born on December 13, 1973, in Mumbai, Meghna grew up immersed in a world of literature, poetry, and cinema. The influence of her parents, both towering figures in their respective fields, was undoubtedly significant in shaping her artistic sensibilities. She pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from St. Xavier's College, Mumbai, and furthered her education with a degree in filmmaking from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. This formal training provided her with the technical skills and theoretical understanding necessary to translate her vision onto the screen.   

Before venturing into direction, Meghna gained valuable experience by assisting renowned filmmakers like Saeed Mirza and her father, Gulzar. This hands-on learning provided her with insights into the intricacies of filmmaking, from scripting to execution.   

The Director's Chair: Crafting Meaningful Cinema

Meghna Gulzar made her directorial debut with the film "Filhaal..." (2002), which sensitively explored the complexities of surrogate motherhood. While the film didn't achieve major commercial success, it established Meghna's penchant for tackling unconventional and socially relevant themes with a mature and empathetic approach.   

Filmography: A Journey Through Powerful Storytelling

Meghna Gulzar's filmography showcases her evolution as a filmmaker who consistently delivers thought-provoking and engaging cinema:

• Filhaal... (2002): Explored the emotional landscape of surrogate motherhood, starring Sushmita Sen and Tabu.   
• Just Married (2003): A romantic comedy starring Fardeen Khan and Esha Deol. This film showcased her ability to handle lighter genres as well. (Note: This film was directed by Meghna Gulzar)
• Dus Kahaniyaan (2007): She directed one of the ten short stories in this anthology film, titled "Pooranmasi," a thriller starring Minissha Lamba and Sudhanshu Pandey.
• Raazi (2018): A spy thriller based on the true story of an Indian spy during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, starring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. This critically acclaimed and commercially successful film marked a significant milestone in her career, earning her widespread recognition and numerous awards.   
• Chhapaak (2020): A biographical drama based on the life of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal, starring Deepika Padukone. The film was lauded for its sensitive portrayal of a crucial social issue.   
• Sam Bahadur (2023): A biographical war film based on the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, starring Vicky Kaushal. This film further solidified her reputation for handling complex historical narratives with finesse.   

Accolades and Recognition: A Testament to Her Craft

Meghna Gulzar's directorial work has been consistently recognized for its artistic merit and impactful storytelling. Some of her notable awards include:

• Filmfare Award for Best Director for "Raazi"   
• Filmfare Award for Best Film (Critics) for "Raazi"
• IIFA Award for Best Director for "Raazi"
• IIFA Award for Best Film for "Raazi"
• Screen Award for Best Director for "Raazi"
• National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment for "Raazi"

Themes and Style: Weaving Sensitivity with Substance

Meghna Gulzar's directorial style is characterized by:

• Strong Female Characters: Her films often feature well-developed and complex female protagonists who drive the narrative.   
• Socially Relevant Themes: She fearlessly tackles important social issues, prompting dialogue and raising awareness.
• Nuanced Storytelling: Her narratives avoid simplistic portrayals, delving into the complexities of human emotions and motivations.
• Strong Performances: She has a knack for extracting compelling performances from her actors.
• Engaging Screenplays: Her films are often marked by tight scripts that keep the audience invested.

Conclusion: A Powerful Voice in Indian Cinema

Meghna Gulzar has emerged as a significant and respected voice in contemporary Indian cinema. Her choice of subjects, her sensitive handling of complex themes, and her ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking narratives have set her apart. From exploring surrogate motherhood to the bravery of a spy and the resilience of an acid attack survivor, her filmography reflects a commitment to telling stories that matter. As she continues to helm projects with her unique vision and powerful storytelling, Meghna Gulzar's contribution to Indian cinema is undoubtedly profound and enduring, inspiring both audiences and aspiring filmmakers alike.

Powerhouse Trio! Kareena Kapoor, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Meghna Gulzar Announce Daayra!

Daayra is Meghna Gulzar's debut film, which stars Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The trio's reunion has been the subject of much anticipation for some time. It's what Bebo called her "dream team." In the end, the creators rewarded their followers with an official message posted on each of their own social media profiles.

On April 14, Kareena Kapoor Khan shared a few pictures of herself with Meghna Gulzar, the director, and actor Prithviraj Sukumaran. In the first image, the actors are seated across from each other, perhaps narrating the script while the director sits next to them. In the following photo, the three of them posed for a playful photo, grinning widely.

"I’ve always said that I’m a director’s actor… and this time I cannot wait to work with one of the finest directors we have, @meghnagulzar & alongside the magnificent @therealprithvi, whose work I deeply admire," she penned in the caption.

"To my dream team, #Daayra let’s do this," she further disclosed.

Additionally, Meghna Gulzar and Prithviraj Sukumaran used similar photographs to generate original posts on their social media profiles.

The director of Raazi wrote, "When the lines of Law and Justice cross. Thrilled to embark on DAAYRA with Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran. A much-anticipated journey with Junglee Pictures and my co-writers Yash Keswani and Sima Agarwal."

Meanwhile, the Bade Miyan Chote Miyan actor stated, "Some stories stay with you from the moment you hear them. DAAYRA, is that for me? Excited to work with Meghna Gulzar, the incredible Kareena Kapoor Khan and Team Junglee Pictures! Wish you all a very happy Vishu!"

Vicky Kaushal to become identical for Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw for a biopic!

After hit film 'Raazi', Vicky Kaushal and Meghna Gulzar are uniting again for a movie on Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. Their association will assuredly result in something good.

Recently, the makers made the pronouncement of this forthcoming project. Vicky took to his Twitter handle and shared his first look in the movie. On the death anniversary of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, the actor recalled him and paid his tributes on social media. Sharing his uncanny resembling look, Vicky posted, "The swashbuckling general & the first Field Marshal of India- SAM MANEKSHAW. I feel honoured & proud of getting a chance to unfold his journey on-screen. Remembering him on his death anniversary & embracing the new beginnings with @meghnagulzar and @RonnieScrewvala."

About the film, Meghna revealed to a daily, "And he remembers them. Ours is not a biopic, because it does not chronologically just record Sam Manekshaw's life. We need to make an interesting narrative when telling a story by picking out the most crucial, iconic and relevant incidents of his life, giving a view of the soldier, the man, and the Field Marshal."

After wife Deepika, hubby Ranveer Singh to unite with Meghna Gulzar for a film based on Sam Manekshaw?

As we know that Deepika Padukone is playing the role of the acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal in Meghna Gulzar’s Chhapaak, the actor has been gearing up for the same. Now, as per reports, Meghna Gulzar is also keen on working with Deepika Padukone’s hubby and actor, Ranveer Singh.

As per a daily, Meghna Gulzar has already discussed the idea of her next film with Ranveer Singh and he has already shown interest in the same. For her next movie after Chhapaak, Meghna will be delving into the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and wants to rope in Ranveer Singh for the same. While Ranveer has already shown his interest in the project, he is yet to give an official nod to the same.

Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh is gearing up for his next film which is Kabir Khan’s ‘83.

Meghna Gulzar to start film Chhapaak!

Meghna Gulzar has ticked two major items off her list of things to do before she starts filming her Laxmi Agarwal biopic.

One, she’s named the film Chhapaak, which means the sound that’s made when liquid splashes. And two, she’s cast Vikrant Massey as the acid attack survivor’s social activist life partner Alok Dixit. Meghna roped Vikrant in after seeing his impressive work in A Death in the Gunj, and she thinks he and Deepika Padukone will complement each other wonderfully on screen. I think she’s right.

Meghna Gulzar opens up about her next movie with Deepika on the acid fighter Laxmi!

Meghna Gulzar’s film about the acid attack victim Laxmi Agarwal is creating buzz in the media. In this film, Meghna Gulzar tackles the subject of acid violence in India and delves into the depth of it through Deepika Padukone’s depiction of the acid attack survivor, Laxmi Agarwal.

Recently, in a media chat, Meghna Gulzar opened up about her forthcoming movie starring Deepika Padukone as the acid attack survivor. She stated that through one of the most widely known acid victims she is trying to give the viewers an insight into a grave issue in India related to law, justice and administration of sale of hazardous material like acid. She revealed, “In the film with Deepika on acid violence, I'm using Laxmi Agarwal as a subject because she is the most known acid fighter. Plus her case and her story has been the most relevant in terms of where legislation on acid violence, medical advancement, compensation for victims and things like that was concerned.”

Meghna even revealed that Laxmi’s story had a deeper impact with regards to the social, legal and medical aspects, and thus remains the most widely known stories in India. She even stated that through her story she wants to give the audience a bigger picture of the entire scenario wherein acid can still be purchased easily at a local store. She revealed, “There was a whole socio-medical and legal impact that her case had. Therefore, I am using her as a lens to tell a larger story on acid violence in India because even though acid is banned and the sale of acid is regulated in our country as of five years now, we still have acid attacks. It is still the simplest thing to get in a kirana store in a tier-3 city.”

Meghna Gulzar’s web series on Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria's life!

Director Meghna Gulzar, who last directed Raazi (2018) starring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, will soon endeavor into the world of web series. She will be making a web series on the life story of former Commissioner of Mumbai Police, Rakesh Maria. As per a media source, the director will cover the experiences he had as a cop and the different cases he solved in his career as a police officer. Rakesh Maria has cracked several big cases like 1993 Bombay serial blasts and, Gateway of India and Zaveri Bazaar twin blasts case of 2003.

Along with this, the former commissioner of Mumbai Police was also the in-charge of investigating the 26/11 terrorist attacks on Mumbai that took place in 2008. He played a key role in the interrogation of one of the terrorists named Ajmal Kasab.

About a web series being made on his life, Rakesh Maria revealed, "I am happy to re-live the journey, especially when piloted by a brilliant and sensitive director like Meghna Gulzar, and a production house of the caliber of Reliance Entertainment's Phantom Films. More than the nostalgia, it's also a valuable opportunity to place before the people the extraordinary work of the Mumbai Police when facing tough challenges and working against all odds."

Director Meghna Gulzar told that Rakesh Maria's life is a powerful lens that can help one to explore the timeline of crime and terror taking place in the society. She also specified, "The potential of this content is limitless, and that is supremely exciting for me."

Alia Bhatt to give her arm and leg for working with Meghna, Zoya and Gauri again!

Vivacious actress Alia Bhatt is one of the most wonderful actresses that we have at present. Her acts in movies like Udta Punjab, Highway and Dear Zindagi have only proven her ability to pull off difficult roles with relative ease.

She is all set to captivate us with an exciting line-up of content-driven movies this year which includes Zoya Akhtar's Gully Boy and Meghna Gulzar's Raazi.

Talking about her association with some of the best female directors in India, Alia revealed a tabloid, “I wouldn’t credit luck alone for this. It’s the magic of movies that brings us together.”

She further added, “Abhi nahi toh kab? I know this has happened early on in my life but these are filmmakers I really wanted to work with. I’ve enjoyed working with them and I will give an arm and leg to work with Meghna, Zoya and Gauri again.”

Alia Bhatt will be essaying a spy for the first time in Raazi. The film is based on the best-selling novel Calling Sehmat written by Harinder Sikka. The film also stars Vicky Kaushal and is scheduled to release on May 11, 2018.

Alia Bhatt is one of the most amazing actors today, reveals Vicky Kaushal!

Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, Meghna Gulzar, 

Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal,

Bollywood’s vivacious actress Alia Bhatt's forthcoming release sees the actor pair opposite Vicky Kaushal for the first time in Raazi, which is helmed by Meghna Gulzar. 

Film Raazi is based on Harinder Sikka's best-selling novel Calling Sehmat. Alia essays a Kashmiri woman who is also an Indian spy providing information during the Indo-Pak war of 1971 while being wedded to a Pakistani army official (played by Vicky).

In a media chat with a daily, Vicky spoke about how he prepped for Raazi. The actor disclosed, "Even if a film is adapted from a real incidence, the director remains your one point reference. As an actor, you have to surrender to their vision and that is what I tend to do with every film. I have learnt to give myself completely to the director and to essay the character assigned with utmost honesty."

About Alia and Meghna, Vicky revealed, "They all such great individuals; I had a ball of a time working with them. Meghna is one of the warmest individuals I have ever come across. Alia is one of the most amazing actors today. She is spontaneous and organic as an actor and really honest, humble about her work."

Raazi is scheduled to release on May 11, 2018.

Alia Bhatt to shoot for Raazi in July!

Actress Alia Bhatt, who was on a break post the success of Badrinath Ki Dulhania, is now all set to begin shooting for Meghna Gulzar's next movie titled Raazi. The movie, which is produced by Junglee Pictures and Dharma Productions, is based on Harinder Sikka's novel, Calling Sehmat.

It is an espionage thriller revolves around a Kashmiri girl wedded to an army officer across the border, who provides precious information to the Indian Intelligence during the 1971 Indo-Pak war and ends up saving the lives of our soldiers. While Alia plays the lead role of the Kashmiri girl, her husband's role would be played by Vicky Kaushal.

As per a report in a famous daily, the movie will go on-floors in July and it will a start-to-finish schedule shot in Punjab, Kashmir and a small portion in Mumbai.

Meghna confirmed the same to a daily and disclosed, "I am trying to do something in a new space, recreating India and Pakistan of the '70s on sets and real locations. A lot of research has gone into getting the period and dialect right. There are some action pieces too. It's work in progress with workshops and reading sessions."

Meghna is also thrilled about working with Alia Bhatt. She said to a daily that this would be a challenging role for her and it is a character unlike any that she has played.

When Meghna was questioned about the story behind the film's title, she told, "It's only when you agree to something that you eventually end up doing it and live with the consequences. `Raazi' is a synonym of `sehmat' which also means agreeable."

Alia and Vicky to participate in workshop to get into skin of characters in Meghna Gulzar's film!

Lately, we got our hands on the look test of Alia Bhatt for Meghna Gulzar's next project which is a movie adaptation of Harinder Sikka's book, Calling Sehmat. It was stated that Alia will be paired opposite Masaan actor Vicky Kaushal.

Previously, a source close to the production team had told a leading news agency, "He (Vicky) is in talks for the film with Alia. The film needs a performer like him. But he is yet to sign on the dotted lines and figure out the dates."

Now, Meghna has started conducting a workshop for both Alia and Vicky so that they can get into the skin of their characters. They will be given hands-on training for the movie and the director is making sure to work on it accordingly.

Speaking about the premise of the movie, the story revolves around a Kashmiri woman played by Alia and she is married to Vicky, who plays the role of a Pakistani Army Officer. The movie is set against the backdrop of the 1971 war.

Seemingly, as per a famous tabloid. Alia was a bit skeptical of this movie because of its controversial subject. It was Alia's father Mahesh Bhatt who persuaded her to be a part of the film.

A source said to the tabloid, "He convinced her that doing an occasional social issue-based subject along with her mainstream films was the right career move. Bhattsaab himself churned out an Arth with a Duplicate. Following her father’s footsteps, Alia has done a hard-hitting Udta Punjab along with Badrinath Ki Dulhania, as well as a Student Of The Year with Dear Zindagi. Meghna’s film will be her next benchmark."

Alia Bhatt’s hints for to be a part of Meghna Gulzar's next?

Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt, who was last seen in Badrinath Ki Dulhania had taken a short break and spend some recreational time by herself. By July, the actress will go back into work mode as she will be shooting for an exciting project.

"I am going to start something very exciting in the month of July. I feel it’s a really interesting project, has a great story and is one of my most challenging roles till date. Every time I think that I am done doing those challenging roles, a new one comes up (laughs). I am already prepping for it," Alia Bhatt specified to a famous tabloid when they questioned if she has signed Meghna Gulzar's movie which is based on the book, Calling Sehmat. In the film, which has a Kashmiri backdrop, Alia will be playing Vicky Kaushal's wife.

In the meantime, Alia will also be paired opposite Ranveer Singh for the first time in Gully Boys. So how did the actress come on board for Zoya Akhtar's movie? "I’ve been saying that I want to work with her since Luck By Chance (2009). I’ve always wanted to work with her. It has taken its time but I’ve reached there. Today, I’m saying that I want to work with Mr (Sanjay Leela) Bhansali. It hasn’t happened yet, but it’ll take time and I know it’ll happen at some point."

Alia also Ayan Mukerji's Dragon which also stars Ranbir Kapoor.

Alia Bhatt team up with Meghna Gulzar for a movie based on Kashmir?

At the age of 24, Alia Bhatt is now conquering the world of Bollywood, one classic film at a time. Whether it be a Dear Zindagi or an Udta Punjab, Alia is experimenting with numerous roles and characters.

As per famous tabloid, Alia has given a green signal to filmmaker Meghna Gulzar's next which is based on the volatile Kashmir situation. While she was a bit sceptic about the film, Alia is finally onboard.

A source told to the tabloid, "It was a dilemma for Alia, as the subject is controversial. But then again, as Mahesh Bhatt’s daughter, you learn to take the controversies in your stride."

It was father Mahesh Bhatt who helped Alia in her decision to be a part of this film. "He convinced her that doing an occasional social issue-based subject along with her mainstream films was the right career move. Bhattsaab himself churned out an Arth with a Duplicate. Following her father’s footsteps, Alia has done a hard-hitting Udta Punjab along with Badrinath Ki Dulhania, as well as a Student of the Year with Dear Zindagi. Meghna’s film will be her next benchmark."

"Alia had allotted all her dates July onwards to Ayan Mukerji’s super-hero film Dragon opposite Ranbir Kapoor. However, that is now on hold, and so she has all the time available. She and Meghna have already started the legwork. Alia wants to delve into the backstory of Kashmir to prepare for her role. She has a lot of reading to do."

When we tried to get in touch with Alia, she was not available for remark.

Talvar’s director Meghna Gulzar to direct a film on acid attack survivor!

Her previous movie, Talvar, based on the Aarushi Talwar double murder case fetched director Meghna Gulzar numerous laurels. Now as per a famous tabloid, Meghna has zeroed down the subject of her next project - the story of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal. 

In 2005, the 15-year-old Laxmi became the victim of an acid attack in Delhi. Reason being a 32-year-old man who harboured a one-sided attraction towards her. Following two years post the incident, Laxmi, whose face had disfigured majorly, started re-building her life. In 2006, Laxmi filed a PIL which sought the framing of a new law or amendment to the existing criminal laws - a plea for a total ban on the sale of acid. Post the 2013 horrific Nirbhaya incident, the Supreme Court ruled in her favour, whereby acid cannot be sold to anyone below 18 years.

Lately, Laxmi has opened cafes in places like Lucknow and Agra which are managed completely by acid attack survivors.

"It's an inspiring story with social and legal implications," told Meghna, who further added, "She (Laxmi) was nervous initially because film people tend to romanticize life. But I promised to tell her story like it is and slowly, she began talking to my writer, Atika Chohan, and me. She later came down to Mumbai with her family. I also spoke to her father's employer who'd helped with her treatment and the case, as also several others."

"I'm open to both newcomers and established actors to play Laxmi. The latter will give the film more visibility. Laxmi, if she makes an appearance, will do so only in the epilogue but we're a long way off still," posted the filmmaker, before signing off.