Actor Pratibha Ranta, who gained acclaim for her performance in ‘Laapataa Ladies’, India’s official entry for the Oscars 2025, has reportedly joined Kartik Aaryan in ‘Naagzilla: Naag Lok Ka Pehla Kaand.’ The film is directed by ‘Fukrey’ filmmaker Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and produced by Dharma Productions in collaboration with Mahaveer Jain Films.
Pratibha Ranta steps into a new fantasy world
According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the makers initially considered Sanya Malhotra for the female lead. However, recent developments indicate that Pratibha Ranta is now in advanced talks for the role. Sources from the production team shared that Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and the producers were keen to cast Pratibha because of her fresh screen presence and strong acting potential. She is also working on another project with Maddock Films, expected to begin in early 2026. If there are no scheduling conflicts, she will headline ‘Naagzilla’ opposite Kartik Aaryan.‘Naagzilla’ marks Kartik Aaryan’s next big fantasy-action venture after ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.’ The film began production in late October 2025 and is slated for a theatrical release on August 14, 2026, a day before Independence Day.
Kartik Aaryan announces Naagzilla shoot
Kartik Aaryan confirmed the start of filming through his official Instagram account on November 1, writing, “1 Year of #BhoolBhulaiyaa3. Day 1 of #Naagzilla. Har Har Mahadev. 14th August 2026.” The post quickly went viral, with fans flooding the comments with excitement and well wishes. Earlier, the actor teased the project with a short video showing him standing in a vast snake pit, gazing at a futuristic skyline. His voiceover introduces his character, saying, “Icchadhari naag. Roop badalne ki shakti rakhne wale saap. Jaise ki main… Preyamvadeshwar Pyare Chand. Umar 631 saal.” ‘Naagzilla’ is described as a high-concept fantasy drama rooted in Indian mythology, exploring the legend of shape-shifting serpents in a modern setting. The film aims to combine large-scale visual storytelling with mythological adventure.
