The Indian film industry is seeing an exciting trend of cross-regional collaborations, with Bollywood and South Indian cinema stars joining forces for some of the most anticipated films of 2025. These pairings bring fresh chemistry, cultural diversity, and a broader appeal to pan-Indian audiences. Here’s a closer look at the films featuring these dynamic duos.
Adivi Sesh and Mrunal Thakur in Dacoit: A Love Story
Adivi Sesh, known for his compelling performances in Goodachari and Major, is set to star opposite Bollywood actress Mrunal Thakur in Dacoit: A Love Story. Directed by Shaneil Deo, the film blends romance with action, telling the story of estranged lovers who are forced to reunite for a daring series of heists.
Mrunal Thakur, fresh off her success in Hi Nanna and Sita Ramam, has been making waves in the South Indian industry, and her pairing with Adivi Sesh is generating excitement among cinephiles.
Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna in Thama
Ayushmann Khurrana, known for his unique script choices, joins hands with Rashmika Mandanna for Thama, a romantic horror-comedy that is part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. This marks Rashmika’s foray into the horror-comedy genre, adding another feather to her cap as she continues to balance Bollywood and South Indian cinema.
With the success of horror-comedy films like Stree and Bhediya, expectations are high for Thama. Given Ayushmann’s knack for choosing quirky yet impactful films and Rashmika’s growing popularity, this film is expected to be a delightful blend of scares and laughs.
Dhanush and Kriti Sanon in Tere Ishq Mein
After the massive success of Raanjhanaa (2013), director Aanand L Rai is set to expand its universe with Tere Ishq Mein, bringing Dhanush back in a romantic drama. Kriti Sanon joins him in this highly anticipated project, portraying the female lead, Mukti.
The film promises to be an emotional rollercoaster, filled with passion, intense drama, and soul-stirring music composed by A.R. Rahman. The teaser has already generated buzz, hinting at a love story that will tug at the audience’s heartstrings. With Rai’s expertise in storytelling and Dhanush’s effortless charm, Tere Ishq Mein is poised to be a cinematic treat.
Adivi Sesh and Wamiqa Gabbi in G2
The spy-thriller Goodachari (2018) was a sleeper hit, and its sequel, G2, promises to be even bigger. Adivi Sesh reprises his role, this time paired with Wamiqa Gabbi, an actress known for her versatility in Bollywood, Punjabi, and South Indian films.
While details about G2 are under wraps, it is expected to be a high-octane espionage thriller featuring intense action sequences, international locations, and a gripping storyline. The film is set to elevate Adivi Sesh’s character, Arjun, as he takes on a new mission.
Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran in Daayra
Bollywood’s leading star Kareena Kapoor Khan and Malayalam cinema’s powerhouse performer form a formidable duo and the talented two are coming together on the screen for the first time for Meghna Gulzar’s crime thriller Daayra.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]