Yash Raj Films’ First-Ever Horror Movie Confirmed? Varun Dhawan Joins Hands with ‘Rocket Boys’ Director… Here’s What We Know

Yash Raj Films (YRF), one of India’s most iconic film production houses, is reportedly preparing to enter the horror genre, marking a significant shift in its decades-long filmmaking journey. According to industry reports, Varun Dhawan has been signed as the lead actor for what is expected to be YRF’s first full-fledged horror feature.

While the production house has successfully explored romance, action, drama, and spy thrillers, horror remains the only major genre it has never attempted. If the reports are accurate, the upcoming project could become one of the studio’s most anticipated releases in the coming years.

Varun Dhawan to Headline the Horror Film

Sources close to the development suggest that Varun Dhawan has officially come on board for the film. The project will reunite the actor with Yash Raj Films after their 2018 collaboration Sui Dhaaga, in which he starred alongside Anushka Sharma.

Varun is no stranger to supernatural stories. His performance in Bhediya, a horror-comedy, earned appreciation from audiences and showcased his ability to handle the genre. This upcoming film, however, is expected to lean more towards pure horror, making it a fresh challenge for the actor.

‘Rocket Boys’ Director Abhay Pannu to Make His Theatrical Debut

The film will reportedly be directed by Abhay Pannu, who won widespread praise for creating the critically acclaimed web series Rocket Boys. Besides directing the project, Pannu has also written the screenplay.

The upcoming horror film is expected to mark his theatrical directorial debut, making it an important milestone in his filmmaking career.

The project is reportedly being backed by YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani, who recently produced Saiyaara, one of the production house’s biggest recent successes.

Production Likely to Begin This Year

According to reports, filming is expected to begin later this year, while the movie is currently targeting a 2027 theatrical release. However, the makers have not officially announced the film’s title, supporting cast, or additional production details.

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Fans are now eagerly waiting for an official confirmation from the studio regarding the project.

A New Chapter for Yash Raj Films

Founded by legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, YRF built its legacy through memorable films such as Kabhi Kabhie, Kaala Patthar, Silsila, and Mashaal. Under Aditya Chopra’s leadership, the banner became synonymous with blockbuster romantic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil To Pagal Hai, and Mohabbatein.

In 2004, YRF successfully expanded into action cinema with Dhoom, eventually creating the hugely successful YRF Spy Universe, which has generated over ₹3,000 crore at the global box office.

The reported move into horror signals another major evolution for the production house as it continues to diversify its storytelling.

Varun Dhawan’s Career Regains Momentum

For Varun Dhawan, the project arrives at a positive phase in his career. After Baby John underperformed at the box office in 2024, the actor bounced back with Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, which delivered a respectable performance.

He further strengthened his position with Border 2, which reportedly crossed ₹470 crore worldwide, while his latest release Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai managed to recover its investment despite mixed critical reception.

If finalized, YRF’s first horror film could become another significant milestone in the actor’s evolving filmography.