It has been a long time since we have seen the amiable Imran Khan on screen. Last seen romancing Kangana Ranaut in the 2015 film Katti Batti, Imran Khan had taken a hiatus from the silver screen. Just when we were wondering what he is doing these days, Imran Khan made a surprise announcement - he is turning director. His first project won't be a feature-length film but an ambitious short movie called Mission Mars: Keep Walking India.

What's the interesting fact about the movie is that it is produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions. In a statement to the media, Imran Khan had said, "It has been an enriching experience writing and directing this tribute to India’s commitment to progress, and for this to be backed by Johnnie Walker - The Journey and Dharma 2.0 made it even more special. Mission Mars has made all of us so proud, and I have tried to encapsulate the spirit of all those who made this achievement possible." Good News: Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Diljit Dosanjh and Kiara Advanis Film Finds a Release Date

Mission Mars: Keep Walking India stars Prakash Belawadi, Abhishek Saha and Sonali Sachdev and is a tribute to India's successful Mars rover campaign. Check out the teaser of the film that Imran Khan shared on his Insta page.

 

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Slingshot is now Mission Mars. Liftoff September 20th. @jwthejourneyindia #missionmarsthefilm #keepwalkingindia

A post shared by Imran Khan (@imrankhan) on

Mission Mars: Keep Walking India will be a part of Johnnie Walker The Journey campaign. The short film will premiere online on September 20.

Imran Khan had a big debut in his uncle Aamir Khan's home production, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, after which he was considered as the next big thing in Bollywood. He was also seen as the closest rival to Ranbir Kapoor in the industry. Although he did taste success with films like Delhi Belly and I Hate Luv Storys, Imran Khan's career didn't get the huge leap that everyone expected to happen. His move to direction will surprise many, but we are sure that he will find success there. Will we see Imran Khan direct maamu Aamir next?

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 11, 2018 05:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).