Mumbai, Jan 20 (.) Kartik Aaryan is reportedly in advanced negotiations to headline an ambitious film under the direction of Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, acclaimed for his taut 2024 thriller ‘Kill’.
The project is said to combine large-scale spectacle with a commercially viable, yet innovative narrative designed to appeal to both mass and urban audiences.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Kartik Aaryan has been offered a one-of-a-kind film by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat. It is an action-adventure film rooted in Indian mythology. Kartik has been excited about this film as the subject is commercial, novel and has the potential to resonate with not just classes but also the masses. Moreover, Kartik enjoyed Nikhil’s ‘Kill’ and feels that he is a director to watch out for.”
The source said, “Both Kartik Aaryan and Nikhil Nagesh Bhat are in advanced stages of discussion. If all goes well and if everything falls in place, Kartik will sign on the dotted line very soon.
Meanwhile, both the actor and filmmaker are also having talks with a major studio to come on board to produce and finance the project. Even on this front, talks have reached advanced stages.”
Meanwhile, Aaryan is gearing up for a packed 2026 slate. He will headline ‘Naagzilla’, a fantasy-comedy that casts him as a shape-shifting serpent under the direction of Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Produced under Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films, the movie reportedly features Ravi Kishan in a key antagonistic role with Sreeleela as the female lead.
She is also paired opposite Kartik in his other release of the year – the untitled musical saga – directed by Anurag Basu. Produced by T-Series, it is expected to be released in the second half of 2026.
. . PRS