Maddock Films is reportedly developing a sequel to its 2019 hit romantic comedy, "Luka Chuppi," with Varun Dhawan and Sharvari Wagh in the lead roles. According to sources, both actors have given their preliminary approval and are expected to formally sign on once the script is finalized in the coming months. The original film, starring Kartik Aaryan and Kriti Sanon, revolved around a couple navigating a live-in relationship complicated by their traditional families.

The sequel, however, is expected to take a different approach, incorporating a supernatural twist into its comedic narrative. While retaining the humorous tone of the first film, "Luka Chuppi 2" will feature an entirely different storyline. This marks a departure from the original's focus on the challenges of live-in relationships and family dynamics, venturing into the realm of supernatural comedy.

While both Varun and Sharvari are part of Dinesh Vijan's Horror-Comedy Universe—Varun plays Bhediya, while Sharvari starred in last year's sleeper hit 'Munjya'—"Luka Chuppi 2" will be their first collaboration in a film together. The makers were looking for a fresh pairing with electrifying onscreen chemistry, akin to Kartik and Kriti's in the original, and found their ideal match in Varun and Sharvari.

Laxman Utekar, who directed the first film, will not be directing the sequel. Instead, one of his associates will take over the directorial responsibilities, with Utekar remaining creatively involved as a co-producer.

Production timelines are currently being finalized, as both actors have multiple commitments lined up. Maddock Films is aiming to begin shooting in the first half of 2026.

Varun Dhawan has several projects in the pipeline, including Dharma Productions' "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari," co-starring Janhvi Kapoor, and his father David Dhawan's romantic comedy, "Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai." He will also make a cameo appearance as Bhediya in "Thama," scheduled for a Diwali 2025 release. Sharvari will be seen next in Yash Raj Films' first female-led spy thriller, "Alpha," alongside Alia Bhatt, which is set to release on Christmas.

The decision to cast Varun Dhawan and Sharvari Wagh in "Luka Chuppi 2" reflects a growing trend in Bollywood of franchise-building and a preference for fresh pairings. Replacing the original leads in a successful film is always a risk, but Maddock Films is clearly banking on the popularity of Varun and Sharvari and the intriguing supernatural twist to attract audiences. For Maddock Films, this could be a masterstroke or a misfire. Varun and Sharvari's pairing is untested, the genre shift is bold, and the audience's patience with sequels is thinning.