Veteran Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor has officially joined the cast of Jr NTR and Prashanth Neel’s highly anticipated film, tentatively titled Dragon. This marks a significant addition to the pan-Indian project, which is already generating considerable buzz. Kapoor's involvement was confirmed by the actor himself, further fueling the excitement surrounding the collaboration.
Dragon marks the second time Anil Kapoor and Jr NTR will share screen space, following their collaboration in War 2. Furthermore, this film represents Kapoor's second venture with a South Indian director, after his recent role in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal.
While details about Kapoor's role are currently under wraps, speculation suggests he will play a pivotal character with significant impact on the storyline. Some reports hint at Kapoor portraying the film’s main antagonist, potentially locking horns with Jr NTR in a high-octane action drama. Other speculations propose he might appear as a mentor or father figure to Jr NTR's character.
Adding to the film’s impressive cast, Rukmini Vasanth has been confirmed as the female lead. Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas has also been roped in for a crucial role, marking his Telugu debut.
Dragon is directed by Prashanth Neel, known for his blockbuster KGF and Salaar. The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers and NTR Arts. Ravi Basrur, who also worked in KGF, is composing the music, while Bhuvan Gowda is handling the cinematography. Production design is being managed by Chalapathi.
The film's storyline is rumored to be set in the 1950s-60s, against the backdrop of the Golden Triangle, exploring the world of drug rackets and mafia networks operating across the borders of India, Burma, Thailand, and Laos. The narrative is expected to showcase a common man's rise to power within this dangerous underworld, blending elements of RAW, Intelligence Bureau, and international crime.
Initially slated for release in the first half of 2026, tentatively in June, Dragon's release has been pushed to later in the year. The team is aiming for a release in the latter half of 2026 to ensure the film's VFX and action sequences align with Prashanth Neel's vision.
In addition to Dragon, Anil Kapoor hinted at a third collaboration with Jr NTR, sparking speculation about a potential standalone film within the YRF Spy Universe. However, official details regarding this project are yet to be announced.
With its stellar cast, high-octane action sequences, and a compelling storyline, Dragon is poised to be one of the biggest pan-Indian releases of 2026.
