‘Haiwaan’: Saif Ali Khan Opens Up About Akshay Kumar’s ‘Dangerous Negative’ Role in Priyadarshan’s Upcoming Film
Saif Ali Khan discusses Akshay Kumar's 'dangerous, negative role' in Priyadarshan's upcoming psychological thriller 'Haiwaan', reuniting the iconic duo after 18 years. Discover details about the film's plot, cast including Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar.
Mumbai: The much-awaited reunion of Bollywood's iconic duo, Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar, in Priyadarshan's upcoming psychological thriller Haiwaan is generating significant buzz. Saif Ali Khan recently offered a tantalising glimpse into the film's dynamics, specifically highlighting Akshay Kumar's character as a departure from their usual on-screen camaraderie. Priyadarshan CONFIRMS Exit From ‘Hera Pheri 3’, Says Akshay Kumar-Starrer May Never Hit the Screens.
Saif Ali Khan on Akshay Kumar's Role in ‘Haiwaan’
In a recent interview with Variety India, Saif Ali Khan expressed his excitement about his co-star's portrayal, stating, "We're very lucky that he's playing this part in the movie. It's made it even more exciting because it's a dangerous, negative role, and I haven't seen him do that very often. I'm very excited to see it." This revelation sets a dramatically different tone for their seventh collaboration, moving away from the comedic chemistry fans have come to love from films like Main Khiladi Tu Anari. "This film doesn't rely on that comedic chemistry, which is also good because I think that has had its time," Saif clarified.
Saif Ali Khan, who portrays a visually impaired music teacher in the film, described working on Haiwaan as an "amazing and challenging experience." He further elaborated on his bond with Akshay Kumar, calling him "like an elder brother" and emphasising the mutual respect and effortless chemistry they share, honed over more than three decades in the industry. Director Priyadarshan himself noted that Akshay Kumar readily accepted the challenging antagonist role after it had been rejected by several other actors who deemed it a "small part."
More About ‘Haiwaan’
'Haiwaan' marks the return of the Akshay Kumar-Saif Ali Khan pairing after a significant 18-year hiatus, with their last outing being 'Tashan' in 2008. The film is a Hindi remake of Priyadarshan's critically acclaimed 2016 Malayalam thriller, 'Oppam', which starred Mohanlal as a visually impaired man.
Directed by Priyadarshan, the upcoming film is produced by Venkat K. Narayana's KVN Productions and Shailaja Desai Fenn's Thespian Films. The cast is led by Saif Ali Khan as a visually impaired music teacher, with Akshay Kumar playing the menacing antagonist. Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar feature in key supporting roles, while Mohanlal makes a special cameo appearance. The film is the Hindi remake of Priyadarshan's 2016 Malayalam thriller Oppam. ‘Haiwaan’ Release Date Announced: Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan’s Film To Release in Cinemas on September 11, 2026.
The narrative of Haiwaan is described as a "David–Goliath story", featuring a "cat and mouse chase" between Saif and Akshay's characters, blending psychological tension with edge-of-the-seat drama. Produced by KVN Productions and Thespian Films, 'Haiwaan' is set for a worldwide theatrical release on September 11, 2026. The release date is strategically placed to benefit from the Ganesh Chaturthi holiday period, promising a strong box office opening.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 29, 2026 06:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
