The upcoming film VVAN: Force of the Forest is generating buzz with its intriguing premise and stellar casting. Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra, who had previously announced the film during Chhath Pooja 2024, is set to headline this culturally-rooted thriller. Now, the project becomes even more exciting with the addition of Tamannaah Bhatia as the female lead.
A Unique Blend of Culture and Thrill
VVAN is being described as a folk thriller—an uncommon genre in mainstream Hindi cinema. The story is expected to delve into regional myths, folklore, and indigenous traditions, giving audiences a fresh cinematic experience. With a backdrop rooted in central India and an emphasis on forest settings, the film is likely to highlight the mystique and depth of rural legends.
Produced by Ektaa R Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms, the movie is scheduled to begin filming in June 2025. Pre-production activities, including location scouting, are already in progress. Large portions of the film will be shot in authentic forest areas to maintain realism and immersion.
Tamannaah’s Role and Preparation
Tamannaah Bhatia, fresh off a string of major projects like Odela 2, Ayan, and the upcoming Rakesh Maria Biopic, is embracing yet another challenging role. Her inclusion in VVAN marks her continued expansion into genre-defying characters.
For this project, Tamannaah is set to undergo special diction training alongside Sidharth to convincingly portray her character, whose roots are deeply tied to the cultural and mythological elements of the narrative. The actress is reportedly thrilled to explore a world inspired by mythology and nature, something she hasn’t tackled before on this scale.
What We Know So Far
While details about the story and supporting cast are still under wraps, the creative direction is clear: VVAN aims to stand out through its raw setting, mythological influence, and intense storytelling. The film’s unique title, Force of the Forest, hints at a powerful narrative possibly involving environmental themes or spiritual elements woven into a suspense-driven plot.
The makers are aiming for a theatrical release in 2026, coinciding with the cultural significance of Chhath Puja, possibly tying the film’s themes to that period’s sentiments and traditions.
Sidharth Malhotra’s Expanding Slate
Apart from VVAN, Sidharth Malhotra has several big-ticket films lined up, including Race 4 alongside Saif Ali Khan, and a comedy directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa. He’s also in discussions for a Karan Johar-backed venture, adding to the momentum of his career post-Shershaah and Yodha.
With two popular actors, a fresh genre, and a culturally resonant storyline, VVAN: Force of the Forest could be one of the most talked-about films of 2026. Tamannaah Bhatia’s entry into this ambitious project further raises the anticipation. As the cameras roll this June, all eyes will be on how this forest-bound thriller unfolds.