Mumbai, July 28 (IANS) – The much-anticipated collaboration between filmmaker Karan Johar and actor Kartik Aaryan has been put on hold. The announcement comes after the fallout from their previous project, “Dostana 2,” which created quite a buzz on the internet.
The “Dostana 2” Controversy
In 2019, Karan Johar announced “Dostana 2,” starring Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Lakshya. However, the project was shelved following Kartik’s exit, which strained his relationship with Johar. The reasons for Kartik’s departure remain undisclosed, but the incident left a significant impact on their professional relationship.
Patch Up and New Project Announcement
Years later, reports of a reconciliation between Johar and Aaryan surfaced. On Kartik Aaryan’s birthday last year, Johar announced an untitled war film with the “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2” actor. Co-produced by Ektaa R. Kapoor and directed by Sandeep Modi, the film was scheduled for release on August 15, 2025. The production was set to begin in October this year.
Announcement on Instagram
Karan Johar took to Instagram to share the news, writing, “Kickstarting today with some special news on a special day!! Extremely thrilled to announce @dharmamovies & @balajimotionpictures coming together for a film helmed by the exceptionally talented @sandeipm. I find myself elated to also announce the supremely talented @kartikaaryan as our lead for this story that will unfold in cinemas on 15th August, 2025!!!! Kartik, happy birthday to you…may our collaboration only grow from strength to strength from hereon and never cease to create magic on the big screen🧡🧡🧡”
Project Put on Hold
Despite the initial excitement, the project has been put on hold. According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Karan Johar decided to pause the war drama after receiving a lackluster response to his last war film, “Yoddha,” starring Sidharth Malhotra.
A source revealed, “There is an overdose of patriotic films set against the backdrop of wars. Karan has identified the market trends after Yoddha and has decided to put Sandeep Modi and Kartik Aaryan’s next on hold.”
Future Prospects
While the war movie is currently on hold, the industry and fans alike are eager to see what new projects Johar and Aaryan will collaborate on in the future. Their potential collaboration promises to bring exciting and dynamic content to the big screen.