In a surprising departure from his signature action-packed extravaganzas, Rohit Shetty is reportedly venturing into the horror genre, with Nushrratt Bharuccha headlining the project. This marks a significant shift for the director, who is known for his high-octane cop universe films like "Singham," "Simmba," and "Sooryavanshi," as well as the comedic "Golmaal" franchise.

According to industry sources, Shetty has been contemplating a horror film for over a year, drawn to the genre's capacity to elicit strong emotional responses. Nushrratt Bharuccha, known for her performance in the horror film "Chhorii," was reportedly his first choice for the lead role. Sources suggest that Shetty believes Bharuccha possesses the vulnerability and strength needed to carry a horror plot.

E Niwas, known for his gritty filmmaking style, has been roped in to direct the yet-untitled project. An industry insider revealed that Niwas's raw and unsettling lens aligns perfectly with Shetty's vision for the film. The film is currently in pre-production and revolves around a woman grappling with supernatural forces connected to a long-buried secret. Script revisions and casting are underway, with filming expected to commence later this year once the schedules of the actors and filmmaker align.

While details about the plot are scarce, the film is said to center around a woman battling supernatural entities tied to a long-hidden secret. This premise suggests a narrative rich in suspense, mystery, and potentially social commentary, elements often found in successful horror films. The move also highlights Shetty's desire to experiment with different genres and cater to a broader audience.

Nushrratt Bharuccha's previous experience in "Chhorii" has prepared her well for this role. "Chhorii" saw her portray a pregnant woman battling societal prejudices and supernatural threats, a performance that was widely lauded for its emotional depth and intensity. This new collaboration with Rohit Shetty provides her with an opportunity to further showcase her versatility as an actress and solidify her position in the horror genre.

Rohit Shetty's decision to produce a horror film is a strategic move that could diversify his portfolio and attract new audiences. While his cop universe films have been box-office successes, exploring horror allows him to tap into a different kind of storytelling and showcase his production capabilities in a new light. It remains to be seen whether this new venture will be a standalone project or the start of a new horror franchise under his banner.

The film is expected to go on floors later in 2025, after the cast and crew have finalized their schedules.