Prashanth Neel Changes Route for NTR: Massive Risk

Prashanth Neel has built a strong reputation as one of India’s top directors of large-scale cinema. After redefining commercial storytelling with KGF, KGF Chapter 2, and most recently Salaar, he is now fully focused on his next project with Jr NTR. Titled Dragon (working title), the film is scheduled for release in June 2026 in multiple Indian languages.

Unlike his earlier works that unfolded in Indian settings, Dragon will take the story to international locations. Starting this October, the team will begin an extensive global shoot that plays a key role in the plot. Industry tracker Himesh Mankad has revealed that the narrative required this global scope, making it Neel’s most ambitious attempt at world building.

After crafting unique fictional spaces like the Kolar Gold Fields in KGF and the Khansaar empire in Salaar, Prashanth Neel is now preparing to create a universe that stretches far beyond India. The film is being designed to surpass even the scale of his earlier blockbusters.

For Neel, Dragon is not just another film but a dream he has carried since the start of his career. Insiders describe it as his passion project, one he has nurtured for years. With Jr. NTR leading and no restrictions on budget, Neel is reportedly thrilled with its progress.

He has even said the film is exceeding his expectations. The challenge is whether Neel can manage a script that extends beyond Indian backdrops. His strength has always been stories rooted in Indian emotions and struggles. This time, the story expands globally, creating curiosity about how he will approach it.

The shoot will keep Jr. NTR busy until early 2026. After that, he is expected to begin an action thriller with Nelson, who will be fresh from Jailer 2. Meanwhile, Prashanth Neel has Salaar 2 and KGF 3 waiting, with the Prabhas starrer expected to move forward once Dragon wraps.