Yash Raj Films (YRF) is set to enter the horror genre for the first time, with Varun Dhawan reportedly attached to headline the production, reports Hindustan Times.
According to sources close to the project, Dhawan has come on board as the lead for YRF’s first horror film.
The project will mark his first collaboration with the production house since the 2018 drama Sui Dhaaga, which also starred Anushka Sharma.
A source said, “Varun has come on board as the lead for YRF’s first horror film. Yash Raj Films (YRF) is entering the horror genre for the first time.”
The film will be produced by YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani, who also backed the production house’s recent success Saiyaara.
Abhay Pannu, known for directing the acclaimed SonyLIV series Rocket Boys, will direct the project and has also written the screenplay.
The film is expected to go on floors later this year and is targeting a 2027 release. It will mark Pannu’s theatrical directorial debut.
“YRF have made films across almost every genre except horror. Come 2027, and the banner will finally step into this genre,” the source added.
Further details, including the film’s title and the remaining cast, have not yet been announced.
YRF, founded by the late filmmaker Yash Chopra, has explored several major genres over the decades.
The production house became known for films such as Kabhi Kabhie, Kaala Patthar, Silsila and Mashaal before Aditya Chopra expanded its focus towards romance with films including Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil To Pagal Hai and Mohabbatein.
The banner later ventured into action with Dhoom in 2004 and went on to build the YRF Spy Universe, which includes interconnected spy thrillers that have collectively grossed more than ₹3,000 crore worldwide.
Dhawan has previously explored horror through the Maddock horror-comedy Bhediya.
The actor had a disappointing 2024 with the action film Baby John, which underperformed at the box office.
He saw some recovery with the 2025 romantic comedy Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, which emerged as a moderate success.
In 2026, Dhawan starred in the war drama Border 2, which reportedly grossed more than ₹470 crore worldwide.
His latest release, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, managed to break even despite receiving negative reviews.
