Sreeleela To Lead in Revamped ‘Dostana 2’; Replaces Janhvi Kapoor in Karan Johar’s New Cast Lineup?

May 7, 2025: After being shelved for years following an alleged fallout between Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan, Dostana 2 is finally being revived—but with a completely new cast and director.

Back in 2021, Dharma Productions made headlines when they announced that Kartik Aaryan would no longer be part of Dostana 2, citing “professional circumstances.” At the time, the film, which also featured Janhvi Kapoor and was meant to launch newcomer Lakshya, was put on hold indefinitely. But now, according to a fresh Mid-Day report and an exclusive update from News18 Showsha, Dostana 2 is officially back on track.

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This time around, actor Vikrant Massey is set to replace Kartik Aaryan in a lead role, while Janhvi Kapoor is also no longer attached to the project. Instead, rising star Sreeleela—who gained massive popularity after her viral dance number in Pushpa 2: The Rule—is being considered for the female lead. “The team of Dostana 2 are extremely keen on having her in the film,” a source revealed, highlighting the industry buzz surrounding the actress.

Lakshya, originally meant to debut with Dostana 2, will still be part of the project. After moving on to star in Kill, he expressed in earlier interviews how the shelving of his debut film impacted him emotionally. “My morale was going down… it really affected me deep down. I needed a film desperately,” Lakshya had shared.

In another major change, the film will no longer be directed by Call Me Bae’s Collin D’Cunha. Instead, Secret Superstar director Advait Chandan is reportedly set to helm the project. If all goes as planned, shooting could begin as early as September or sometime next year, depending on Vikrant Massey’s commitments, particularly Don 3.

Dharma Productions is said to be recasting with a fresh ensemble in mind—actors who haven’t worked together before—to create an original dynamic on screen. With big names and high expectations, the spiritual sequel to the 2008 hit Dostana might just offer a fresh spin on the beloved franchise.