Yash Raj Films to make first horror film with Varun Dhawan, Rocket Boys’ Abhay Pannu to direct

Yash Raj Films (YRF) is reportedly set to enter the horror genre for the first time, with Varun Dhawan on board as the lead and Rocket Boys director Abhay Pannu at the helm.

The project comes as horror continues to find a wider audience in Indian cinema. The film is expected to go on floors later this year and is targeting a 2027 release.

Varun Dhawan to lead YRF’s first horror

A source close to the project told Hindustan Times, “Varun has come on board as the lead for YRF’s first horror film. Yash Raj Films (YRF) is entering the horror genre for the first time.”

The film will mark Dhawan’s first collaboration with YRF since the 2018 drama Sui Dhaaga, which also starred Anushka Sharma. The actor has previously explored the horror space with Maddock Films’ horror-comedy Bhediya.

The project is being backed by YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani, who produced Saiyaara, one of the production house’s recent successes.

Rocket Boys director Abhay Pannu to make theatrical debut

Abhay Pannu, known for directing the acclaimed SonyLIV series Rocket Boys, will direct the film. He has also written the screenplay.

The project will mark Pannu’s theatrical directorial debut after his work on the web series. According to the source, YRF has explored several major genres over the years but has not previously made a horror film.

“YRF have made films across almost every genre except horror. Come 2027, and the banner will finally step into this genre,” the source added.

The film’s title and the rest of the cast have not yet been announced.

From romance to action, YRF’s genre journey

Founded by the late filmmaker Yash Chopra, YRF built its reputation with dramas and romances before expanding into other genres.

The production house was known for films such as Kabhi Kabhie, Kaala Patthar, Silsila and Mashaal in the 1970s and 1980s. After Aditya Chopra joined the company, YRF became closely associated with romantic blockbusters including Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil To Pagal Hai and Mohabbatein.

The company later entered the action space with Dhoom in 2004 and went on to build the YRF Spy Universe.

Varun Dhawan’s recent releases

Dhawan’s recent run has included Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari in 2025 and Border 2 this year. Border 2 reportedly earned more than ₹470 crore worldwide.

His latest release, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, was also able to break even despite receiving negative reviews.