‘Udta Punjab 2’ in the making? Ekta Kapoor planning to bring Shahid Kapoor back

According to reports on the Indian media portals, Bollywood producer and director Ekta Kapoor is planning a sequel to the Bollywood movie Udta Punjab, which was released in 2016.

Ekta Kapoor is keen on bringing Shahid Kapoor back for the lead role as it was played by him in the first part alongside Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh. 

Ekta has reportedly had preliminary discussions with Shahid, but formal talks are yet to take place.

The publication quoted a source close to the development as saying, "Udta Punjab 2’ is currently in the writing phase, with production slated to begin next year. The team plans to approach actors once the script is finalized."

The director of the 2016 film was Abhishek Chaubey, who faced significant challenges, including a long battle with the censor board, before it was released. It emerged a success at the box office and garnered praise for its story as well as the cast’s performances.

This time, Abhishek Chaubey will not be involved in the sequel, as he has other work commitments. The sequel will reportedly have a new storyline, and its only connection to the original film will be Punjab’s drug crisis.

Shahid Kapoor played the drug addict rockstar ‘Tommy’ in Udta Punjab.

In an old interview with Pinkvilla, the actor once shared his reaction when he got to know about the role, as he has never touched drugs in real life.

Shahid asked Abhishek Chaubey, “Why did you offer me this role? Bro, maine life mein kabhi sharab nahi pi hain. Aaj tak nahi pi hain. Maine life kabhi koi substance nahi ki hain. I don’t know what it is to be high."

Shahid Kapoor remembered Abhishek advising him to take on a challenging character. Despite doubts and fear of judgment from friends, Shahid chose to take up the role. He believed that conquering such a distant character would make him fearless in his acting career.