Brahmastra 2 Loses Jio Studios; Makers Resume Hunt for Partner
Jio Studios has backed out of Brahmastra 2. Ayan Mukerji's Starlight Pictures now seeks a new studio partner for the Ranbir Kapoor-Deepika Padukone-Alia Bhatt film.
The much-anticipated sequel to the 2022 blockbuster Brahmastra is facing a production hurdle. Jio Studios, which was in talks to partner on Brahmastra 2, has decided against associating with the project, according to trade sources. This development has prompted the makers to restart their search for a studio partner.
Ayan Mukerji's production house, Starlight Pictures Private Limited, holds the intellectual property rights to the franchise and will produce the sequel. The company is now looking for a studio to collaborate with on the ambitious project.
Initially, discussions were held with Jio Studios, but those talks did not materialise. This is notable because Star Studios, whose entertainment business is now part of the JioStar ecosystem, was a key partner on the first Brahmastra. Despite the corporate integration, neither Jio Studios nor Star Studios will be involved with the sequel.
Dharma Productions, which also produced the first film, has also stepped away. Following this, Mukerji approached Yash Raj Films (YRF). While Aditya Chopra had shown interest during Mukerji's work on War 2, YRF ultimately decided not to proceed after that film's underwhelming performance.
The search for a new partner is now underway. Industry insiders believe the project's strong brand recall and star power will attract interest. The sequel is expected to feature Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone in lead roles, with Alia Bhatt in an extended special appearance. This combination is seen as a major draw, and the film is considered one of the most high-profile Hindi projects in development.