What is the story about?
Karan Johar is finally reviving a long-delayed project based on the life of Rameshwar Nath Kao, the legendary Indian intelligence officer who founded R&AW.
First announced in 2020, the biopic has remained in development for years, with little known about its progress. Now, six years later, Dharma Productions has officially brought the project back into focus with a theatrical release date. Based on Nitin Gokhale’s book RN Kao: Gentleman Spymaster, the film promises to explore a fascinating chapter in India’s intelligence history. From cast to release date, here's what has been revealed about the film.
Karan Johar Revives RN Kao Biopic After Six Years
Dharma Productions is teaming up with Leo Media Collective for the film, which was officially announced on September 21, 2026, marking 58 years since the establishment of R&AW. The 2028 release is expected to coincide with the agency’s 60-year milestone. The film is scheduled to release on August 11, 2028.
Announcing the project, Karan Johar wrote on Instagram that the film will explore the story of the man who worked behind the scenes to build the institution now known as R&AW. He also confirmed that the screenplay is based on Nitin Gokhale’s Gentleman Spymaster and will focus on the agency’s first mission.
Karan Johar mentionesaid Leo Media Collective had spent the past two years researching and dramatising the story. He added that the team wants to create a gripping film based on true events while paying tribute to R&AW and its milestone year.
Film To Cover Kao’s Journey From 1955 To 1971
The makers are currently keeping production details under wraps. Casting is reportedly underway, with an A-list actor expected to headline the project. The director has also not been announced, it is reported that the film will go on floors by mid-2027.
The story will reportedly span the period between 1955 and 1971, exploring the circumstances that led to the formation of R&AW before building towards its first major mission during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
Rameshwar Nath Kao served as R&AW’s first chief from 1969 to 1977 and played a key role in establishing India’s external intelligence framework. Before heading the agency, he led the Intelligence Bureau’s Aviation Research Centre and had worked with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Kao was also associated with sensitive intelligence operations and played an important role in the events surrounding the creation of Bangladesh in 1971.
The film marks another collaboration between Dharma Productions and Leo Media Collective after Bad Newz (2024) and Kesari: Chapter 2 (2025). The RN Kao biopic is set to arrive in theatres on August 11, 2028.
