SCOOP: Jio Studios backs out of Brahmastra 2; Ayan Mukerji begins hunt for a new studio partner for Ranbir Kapoor-Deepika Padukone-Alia Bhatt starrer
Here's the latest update from the Bollywood world:
A trade source told Bollywood Hungama , “Ayan Mukerji’s production house, Starlight Pictures Private Limited, was one of the producers of Brahmastra ’s first part and the banner holds the rights to the movie’s IP. Starlight will be producing Brahmastra 2 and they are looking at a studio partner to come on board.”
Adding to this, The source continued, “The makers were in discussions with Jio Studios to come on board as the studio partner for Brahmastra 2 . However, those talks did not materialise and Jio has now decided against associating with the sequel. Interestingly, Star Studios was one of the key partners on the first Brahmastra . With Star’s entertainment business now part of JioStar, and Jio Studios also operating under the larger ecosystem, there was an expectation that the association could continue with the franchise. However, as things stand, neither Jio Studios nor Star Studios is involved with Brahmastra 2 .”
Meanwhile, The source further revealed, “Dharma Productions, which also produced the first Brahmastra , is also not associated with the second instalment. After Dharma stepped away, Ayan Mukerji initiated discussions with Yash Raj Films (YRF). Aditya Chopra had shown interest in the project, particularly when Ayan was directing War 2 for YRF. However, following the disappointing performance of War 2 , YRF decided not to take the discussions forward. Jio Studios subsequently entered the picture, but that association too has not worked out. As a result, the makers are once again looking for the right studio partner for Brahmastra 2 .”
Notably, The search for a studio partner continues, though members of the trade believe that a project of this scale should not remain without one for long. An industry insider remarked, “ Brahmastra was a major theatrical success and the franchise continues to enjoy tremendous recall among audiences. More importantly, the second part is expected to feature Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone in leading roles, along with Alia Bhatt in an extended special appearance. That combination itself makes Brahmastra 2 one of the most high-profile Hindi films in development. There will naturally be considerable interest around the movie, and if mounted on the right scale, it has all the ingredients for a huge opening. So, despite the recent developments, Ayan and his team should have no shortage of potential studio partners to speak with.”
Source: Bollywood Hungama