Priyadarshan’s upcoming film Haiwaan has officially locked its release date. Starring Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar, the film is scheduled to arrive in theatres on September 11, 2026. The announcement was made with a new poster that described Priyadarshan as a master storyteller.
The film is produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn. Haiwaan also marks the reunion of Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar on screen after Tashan. Their pairing has already generated excitement among fans.
However, the release date has also raised concerns because Jailer 2 is reportedly targeting the same day. Although the makers have not confirmed the date, industry rumours continue to suggest September 11, 2026, as the likely release.
The first Jailer earned a respectable response in the Hindi market, with reports suggesting collections of around Rs. 6-7 crore. While the numbers were not exceptional, the film performed well in several centres and built a loyal audience.
Rajinikanth remains a popular star across India. However, apart from 2.0, the Hindi versions of many of his films have not delivered major box office success. Trade experts believe Jailer 2 could perform better because the first film created a stronger fan base in Hindi.
Priyadarshan also enjoys a loyal audience built over several decades. Many of his comedy films have become cult favourites and continue to attract viewers. His reputation as a filmmaker still adds value to his projects despite criticism over remakes and adaptations.
The performance of Haiwaan will largely depend on its budget, promotional campaign and opening day collections. Reports suggest the film has been made on a budget of around Rs. 100 crore. A strong marketing campaign could help it recover costs if audience interest remains high.
Akshay Kumar’s fans believe Haiwaan has an advantage because it is a remake of Priyadarshan’s Oppam, a film that many Hindi viewers have not watched due to the absence of a Hindi-dubbed version. This could make the story feel fresh for a wider audience.
Some critics remain unconvinced. They argue that Oppam, released nearly a decade ago, had a familiar storyline that may not connect with today’s Hindi audience. The final outcome will depend on the film’s presentation and execution.
With two months still remaining, it is unclear whether the reported box office clash will happen. If Haiwaan secures a solo release, it could enjoy a better opportunity to attract audiences and perform strongly at the box office.
