A recent image shared by director Priyadarshan from the sets of his upcoming film Haiwaan has created a buzz, capturing a poignant moment featuring himself alongside Saif Ali Khan and Mohanlal. The picture seems to confirm Mohanlal's involvement in the project, sparking excitement among fans of the director and actors.
Priyadarshan, reflecting on the serendipitous nature of his career, captioned the Instagram post with heartfelt gratitude: "Look at life and the way it turns... Here I am, on the shooting sets of HAIWAAN, working with the son of one of my biggest cricket heroes and my favourite film icon. Truly, God is kind". He was referencing Saif Ali Khan, whose father, Tiger Pataudi, was a legendary Indian cricket captain, and Mohanlal, whom he considers a favorite actor. In the photograph, both Saif and Mohanlal are seen sporting sunglasses and holding walking sticks.
Haiwaan is reportedly a remake of Priyadarshan's own 2016 Malayalam hit, Oppam, which starred Mohanlal in the lead role. In Oppam, Mohanlal played a blind man who must protect a child from a killer. Saif Ali Khan is taking on a similar role in Haiwaan, playing a visually impaired character. Priyadarshan has also revealed that Mohanlal will appear in a cameo in Haiwaan.
The film reunites Priyadarshan with Akshay Kumar after their 2010 collaboration, Khatta Meetha. They are also working together on Bhoot Bangla. Haiwaan also marks the reunion of Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan after 17 years; their last film together was Tashan in 2008.
Akshay Kumar plays the antagonist in Haiwaan, a role that was turned down by many actors before he accepted it. According to Priyadarshan, Akshay offered to play the part during the shooting of Bhoot Bangla when Priyadarshan expressed concerns about Haiwaan not materializing due to the difficulty in casting the role.
Saiyami Kher is also part of the cast. Haiwaan is produced by KVN Productions and Thespian Films, with Venkat K Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn as co-producers. Cinematographer Divakar Mani, who worked with Priyadarshan in Corona Papers, is handling the camera for Haiwaan.
Akshay Kumar wrapped up the final schedule of Haiwaan in October. Priyadarshan shot an action sequence with Akshay and Saif near Churchgate railway station in Mumbai, involving numerous cars and junior artists. The film is now in its final schedule in Mumbai.
The makers of Haiwaan are aiming for a grand release in 2026.
