Director Rohit Shetty is set to overhaul the formula of his blockbuster comedy franchise with the upcoming Golmaal 5. In a significant departure from previous instalments, the film will reportedly move away from its traditional romantic subplots to focus entirely on the ensemble’s comedic chemistry. The project, which officially went on floors in February 2026, marks the return of the core gang alongside a major new addition to the cast, signalling a "bolder" direction for the 20-year-old series. ‘Koi Franchise Nahi Chhodta Hai Ye’: Ajay Devgn Jokes as Akshay Kumar Joins 'Golmaal 5', Shoot Begins Under Rohit Shetty.

‘Golmaal 5’ To Skip Romantic Angle?

According to a report by Variety India, the fifth chapter of the franchise will break a long-standing pattern by omitting a leading lady for protagonist Gopal, played by Ajay Devgn. While previous films featured actresses like Rimi Sen, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Parineeti Chopra in central romantic roles, the new script prioritises situational humour over love interests.

‘Golmaal 5’ Announcement

 

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The  report states, “The upcoming comedy entertainer will have no leading heroine romantically paired opposite Ajay Devgn.” The trade publication further noted that this “marks the first time a 'Golmaal' film will have no 'romantic' angle for its leading man, breaking the franchise tradition.”

Focus on Ensemble Chaos

The decision to ditch the romance appears to be part of a broader strategy to refresh the brand. Production insiders describe Golmaal 5 as the "most ambitious" entry yet, aiming to lean into the high-energy slapstick and "madness quotient" that defined the original 2006 film.

While South Indian star Priyamani has joined the cast, she will reportedly not serve as a love interest for any of the male leads. Instead, the narrative will centre on the friction between the original group and a new antagonist played by Akshay Kumar, who was recently revealed in a bald look for the film.

Evolution of ‘Golmaal’ Franchise

The Golmaal series has historically been a massive commercial success, with the four previous films earning an estimated INR 600 crore worldwide. Since the release of Golmaal Again in 2017, fans have waited nearly nine years for a sequel.

The returning cast includes franchise regulars Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade, and Kunal Kemmu. Notably, Sharman Joshi, who starred in the first film but was absent for the sequels, is also confirmed to return.

‘Golmaal 5’ Release Timeline

Filming for Golmaal 5 is currently underway in Mumbai, following an official announcement made on Rohit Shetty’s birthday in March 2026. The production is expected to move to various locations throughout the year, with a tentative theatrical release planned for early 2027. Is ‘Golmaal 5’ Inspired by Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Do Aur Do Paanch’? Rohit Shetty Issues Clarification.

By removing the traditional "hero-heroine" dynamic, Shetty and Devgn appear to be betting on the nostalgia of the "gang" and the novelty of Akshay Kumar’s entry to carry the film to box-office success.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 07, 2026 08:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).