Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL:  Alia Bhatt has officially confirmed that she will star in Tumbbad 2, ending months of speculation about her involvement in the highly anticipated sequel to the cult horror-fantasy film. The announcement has generated fresh excitement among fans eager to see the next chapter of one of Indian cinema's most acclaimed horror franchises.

The actor confirmed the news during an interaction with Bombay Times, where she spoke about her admiration for the original film and her excitement about joining the project. Earlier reports had suggested that Kangana Ranaut was being considered for the role, but Alia has now been confirmed as the female lead opposite Sohum Shah.

Speaking about the opportunity, Alia said, "I am looking forward to exploring a character that belongs to a story as mysterious and unforgettable as Tumbbad."

She also shared how deeply the original 2018 film had stayed with her over the years.

"Tumbbad has stayed with me ever since I first watched it. Very few films create a world that feels this original and immersive, and even fewer continue to grow in people's imagination years after they've released. That's what makes this opportunity so exciting," she said.

Alia added that becoming part of the Tumbbad universe is a special milestone in her career. She said she is excited to work alongside Sohum Shah and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, two actors she has long admired and is looking forward to audiences experiencing the story that they are creating together and received widespread critical acclaim for its haunting visuals, rich mythology and atmospheric storytelling. Although the film had a modest theatrical run, it went on to achieve cult status and is now regarded as one of the finest horror films produced in Indian cinema.

Sohum Shah, who starred in and produced the original film, will reprise his role in the sequel, while Nawazuddin Siddiqui has also been confirmed in a lead role. Although the makers have not revealed details about the storyline or Alia's character, Tumbbad 2 is expected to further expand the mysterious and folklore-inspired universe established in the first film.

The sequel is scheduled to release in theatres on December 3, 2027. With Alia Bhatt officially joining the franchise, anticipation surrounding Tumbbad 2 has grown even stronger among fans of the original.