Akshay Kumar is NOT returning as Rowdy Rathore. The much-anticipated follow-up to his 2012 blockbuster appears to have been put on hold. According to a recent
report, the Prabhu Deva-directed sequel that was in the works will not proceed with another chapter. In fact, there are indications that modifications are being made to its script and production. Featuring Sonakshi Sinha, Rowdy Rathore had Akshay portraying a dual role as ASP Vikram Rathore IPS and the criminal Shiva.
Rowdy Rathore 2 not happening
On August 21, Bollywood Hungama cited industry insiders in a report indicating that producers Shabinaa Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have abandoned Rowdy Rathore 2. This decision follows three years of writing and development. The source further mentioned that the script will now be transformed into an independent original film.
The report indicated that both Disney India, which possessed the intellectual property rights to the 2012 film, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, after acquiring Ronnie Screwvala's UTV Motion Pictures, lacked the confidence to greenlight the sequel. The source stated, "With Disney hesitant to proceed, Shabinaa Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have opted to completely discard the Rowdy Rathore 2 concept and rework the script into a standalone commercial film, detached from the Rowdy Rathore label."
About the rumored new cast and director
So, what lies ahead? V. Vijayendra Prasad's script will now undergo extensive changes. According to reports, the creators intend to reshape it into a new, action-packed cop drama that captures the original film's mass-appeal entertainment value.
Tamil director P.S. Mithran is expected to helm the new project, which is anticipated to begin production next year. Previously, the Rowdy Rathore sequel was set to feature Sidharth Malhotra. However, new casting will likely involve a younger, more marketable actor to portray "a dynamic, larger-than-life police officer." Further information regarding the project and its casting is forthcoming.
