Excel Entertainment is reportedly joining forces with screenwriter and producer Kanika Dhillon for an intense new thriller. The project is currently being developed, with preparations underway to finalise its principal cast and director.
Kanika has written the screenplay and will also co-produce the film through her banner, Kathha Pictures. The collaboration will mark her third production venture following the Kajol and Kriti Sanon-led mystery thriller Do Patti and the upcoming Taapsee Pannu-starrer Gandhari.
Although the makers are keeping the storyline and title under wraps, the film is expected to examine questions of morality and ethics while addressing complicated societal issues. Two bold and layered characters will reportedly drive the narrative, placing their decisions and conflicts at the centre of the thriller.
While the director is also yet to be confirmed, the production team is currently planning to begin filming either towards the end of 2026 or in early 2027, depending on how quickly the remaining creative and casting decisions are completed.
Kanika is known for writing stories built around complicated, flawed and strong-willed female characters. Her credits include Haseen Dilruba, Manmarziyaan, Guilty and Judgementall Hai Kya. She has also worked on films such as Dunki, Kedarnath and Raksha Bandhan.
Her next production, Gandhari, features Taapsee Pannu as a determined mother on a mission. The action thriller is being directed by Devashish Makhija, known for Joram and Bhonsle. The film is currently in post-production and is scheduled to premiere on Netflix later this year.
The new collaboration arrives as Excel Entertainment continues to expand its production lineup following its deal with Universal Music India earlier this year. The company, founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, is developing projects across different genres and production scales.
Its current slate includes Lalkaara, a sports drama starring Aamir Khan and directed by Ashutosh Gowariker. The company is also working on Antony, a suspense-driven action thriller featuring Sunny Deol and Jyothika.
Other projects include Mirzapur: The Film, which is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on September 4, as well as a biographical film about music composer R.D. Burman being developed with filmmaker Neeraj Pandey. Abhishek Chaubey’s upcoming Prime Video series is also part of the company’s expanding lineup.
With casting discussions progressing and production being targeted for late 2026 or early 2027, further details about Kanika and Excel Entertainment’s thriller are expected once the director and lead actors have been finalised.