India’s Panorama Studios has secured the worldwide theatrical distribution rights for three Punjabi-language films scheduled for release in 2026, further strengthening its presence in Punjabi cinema, according to Variety.
The studio has acquired Argentina, starring Ammy Virk and Sargun Mehta; Thaapi, featuring Neeru Bajwa and Sunny Singh; and Ranjheya, led by Harrdy Sandhu and Simrat Kaur.
The acquisition follows the success of Ishqan De Lekhe, one of this year’s sleeper hits, and marks a significant expansion of Panorama Studios’ Punjabi film slate. The three films bring together some of the industry’s best-known stars across different genres.
According to Variety, Anshu Kapoor, who joined Panorama Studios earlier this year as head of Punjabi production and acquisitions, has led the company’s efforts to expand its footprint in Punjab. Under her leadership, the studio has been developing a slate centred on diverse stories, established talent and broad audience appeal.
Panorama’s Punjabi line-up also includes Kankaan De Ole, set for release on 31 July, and 70 Syaal, a Punjab-set horror-folklore drama expected to arrive in cinemas in the coming months.
Panorama Studios chairman Kumar Mangat Pathak said Punjabi cinema now enjoys a strong cultural connection not only across India but also in international markets with large Punjabi-speaking communities. He said the success of Ishqan De Lekhe had reinforced the company’s belief in regional storytelling. He added that Argentina, Thaapi and Ranjheya combine compelling stories with some of Punjabi cinema’s most popular stars, and reaffirmed the studio’s commitment to expanding the global reach of Punjabi films.
Murlidhar Chhatwani, CEO of distribution and syndication at Panorama Studios, described the acquisitions as an important step in building a strong and consistent Punjabi film slate. He said the company sees significant growth potential in both domestic and international markets and aims to support films with strong theatrical appeal through wider releases and extensive marketing.
Chhatwani also noted that Punjab’s digital and music sectors continue to grow, with regional streaming platforms reshaping the value of digital rights while Punjabi music’s rising global popularity is increasing the worth of audio rights.
Kapoor said Punjabi cinema is going through a phase of rediscovery as audiences seek fresh stories and new genres. She said her focus since joining Panorama Studios has been to build strong relationships with producers, filmmakers and talent while creating a pipeline of films capable of reaching audiences beyond traditional markets. She described Argentina, Thaapi and Ranjheya as examples of the scale, diversity and quality the studio aims to champion.
