Varun Dhawan to headline YRF’s first horror film, directed by Abhay Pannu
Varun Dhawan has reportedly agreed to headline Yash Raj Films’ first horror feature, with Abhay Pannu attached to direct. The untitled project marks the studio’s entry into the genre, with a theatrical release planned for 2027.
The film will be produced under YRF’s banner, with CEO Akshaye Widhani driving the initiative to diversify the company’s slate beyond its traditional strengths in romance, action and drama. Abhay Pannu, best known for the acclaimed series ‘Rocket Boys’, will make his big‑screen directorial debut with the project.
For Dhawan, the film represents his second collaboration with YRF after ‘Sui Dhaaga: Made in India’ (2018). Industry observers note that his casting signals the studio’s intent to position the horror venture as a mainstream release, rather than a niche genre experiment.
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Plot details remain under wraps, with production expected to commence later in 2026. The announcement has already generated significant interest, given YRF’s track record of shaping commercial trends and Pannu’s reputation for layered storytelling.
The move into horror is seen as a strategic expansion for YRF, which has historically avoided the genre. The project is expected to be marketed as a prestige release, leveraging the studio’s global distribution network.
