As 2026 approaches with major mainstream releases, a fresh wave of storytellers is preparing to step into direction. Bollywood’s growing focus on new voices and sharper narratives has opened doors for filmmakers bringing ambition, intelligence, and a distinct creative vision.
Among the most talked-about debuts is Hrithik Roshan, who is set to move behind the camera after more than 25 years as a leading actor. Known for his screen presence and performances, he is now ready to take on filmmaking responsibilities.
Hrithik Roshan is expected to direct and star in Krrish 4, the fourth instalment of the popular franchise. He has led all previous films, while Rakesh Roshan directed them. This time, Rakesh Roshan will produce alongside Aditya Chopra of Yash Raj Films.
The actor reportedly plans to expand the superhero universe on a much larger scale. He has spent years learning VFX and filmmaking techniques. Production on Krrish 4 is expected in the second half of 2026, with a 2028 theatrical release planned.
Arijit Singh also joins the list as the singer and music producer looks to shift into feature filmmaking. Industry insiders say he plans to direct a jungle adventure film produced by Mahaveer Jain, scheduled to go on floors in early 2026.
Screenwriter Sumit Arora, known for writing dialogues for Stree, Chandu Champion, 83, Jawan, The Family Man, and Dahaad, is also turning director. His debut will be a high-concept fun film expected to begin production after the monsoon of 2026.
Sourabh Gupta, who wrote dialogues for Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal and Sunny Deol’s Jaat, is set to make his directorial debut with Laikey Laikaa. The film is produced by Phantom Studios and marks his transition to direction. Laikey Laikaa stars Munjya fame Abhay Verma and Rasha Thadani in lead roles. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release in summer 2026, adding another notable debut to the year’s release slate.
Ritesh Shah, celebrated for writing Kahaani, Airlift, Pink, Sardhar Udham, Raid, and Batla House, is also stepping into direction. His film Ghooskhor Pandat is an intense crime drama featuring Manoj Bajpayee, Saqib Saleem, and Akshay Oberoi. Produced by Neeraj Pandey under Friday Filmworks, Ghooskhor Pandat will premiere directly on Netflix in early 2026. The project marks Ritesh Shah’s move into filmmaking after nearly two decades as a screenwriter.
Aakash Kaushik, who has written Housefull 4, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and 3, and A Flying Jatt, is also making his directorial debut. His romantic comedy stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan.
Although the film has been ready for over a year, Dharma Productions is reportedly planning a release in the first half of 2026. Reports also suggest Aakash Kaushik is in talks with Ekta Kapoor to direct Udta Punjab 2.
Vivek Daschaudhary will debut with Toaster, the first film backed by Rajkummar Rao’s new production banner. The film is set to premiere on Netflix in early 2026 and marks a new creative chapter for the director.
Vivek previously assisted Raj and DK on Guns and Gulaabs. His debut film is a murder mystery featuring an ensemble cast that includes Sanya Malhotra, Archana Puran Singh, Abhishek Bachchan, Upendra Limaye, Vinod Rawat, Jitendra Joshi, and Seema Pahwa.
The only female filmmaker on the list is Sreeti Mukherji. She earlier assisted Ayan Mukherji on Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Brahmastra Part 1: Shiva and is now ready to step into direction.
Sreeti Mukherji is expected to make her directorial debut with an Amazon Prime film. The project is produced by Alia Bhatt’s Eternal Sunshine Pictures along with Chalkboard Entertainment.
With multiple first-time directors across cinema and OTT, 2026 is shaping up as a defining year. These filmmakers are set to bring fresh storytelling energy beyond familiar mainstream formulas.
