After a long wait, Karan Johar’s Dostana 2 is finally back in the news. It was initially in 2019 with Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor and newcomer Lakshya but the film was put on hold in 2021 after Kartik’s exit due to some professional circumstances.

However, Dharma Productions had confirmed at the time that the film would be recast.

Vikrant Massey Steps In For Kartik Aaryan

According to a recent Mid-Day report, the film is still in talk, with Lakshya still attached. However, Kartik Aaryan has been replaced by Vikrant Massey, who is gaining lot’s of fans lately. This casting changes marks a fresh pairing for fans.

Sreeleela Tipped To Step Into Janhvi Kapoor’s Role

News18 Showsha has recently reported that Janhvi Kapoor is no longer part of the project either. Instead, South Indian actress Sreeleela is being considered for playing the female lead. Her dance number and rising popularity have reportedly caught the attention of Dharma Productions.

A source revealed, “Sreeleela has a lot of buzz around her right now. She’s already working with Kartik Aaryan in Anurag Basu’s next and the team behind Dostana 2 is keen to explore her chemistry with new co-stars.”

New Director Joins The Project

In another major change, the film is also said to have a new director. While Call Me Bae director Collin D’Cunha was earlier set to helm the film, reports now suggest that Secret Superstar director Advait Chandan might take over.

Filming for Dostana 2 is expected to begin either in September this year or early 2026, depending on Vikrant Massey’s schedule for Don 3.