Key Points

Imtiaz Ali has announced a new friendship-themed film called Side Heroes starring the popular comic trio from Stree and Fukrey. The project reunites Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana and Varun Sharma under Ali's production. Slated for Friendship Day 2026 release, the film promises to blend humor with emotional bonds. The team shared behind-the-scenes glimpses showing their infectious camaraderie during early discussions.

Key Points: Imtiaz Ali Announces Friendship Day Film Side Heroes With Stree Trio

  • Imtiaz Ali produces friendship comedy reuniting Stree-Fukrey stars
  • Film explores lifelong bonds through humor and emotion
  • Directed by Ssanjay Tripathy with quirky Bhojpuri twist
  • Targets Friendship Day 2026 release with heartfelt theme
2 min read

Imtiaz Ali announces Friendship Day-special film 'Side Heroes' with Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana, Varun Sharma

Imtiaz Ali teams with Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana & Varun Sharma for comic friendship drama Side Heroes releasing Friendship Day 2026.

"Dosti ka jo emotion hota hai na usse upar kuch nahi - Varun Sharma"

Mumbai, August 3

Acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has announced his latest project, coinciding with the occasion of Friendship Day.

In an official Instagram post, Mahaveer Jain Films shared a video of the director with the lead cast that includes the dynamic Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana and Varun Sharma.

The trio is known for their bone-tickling comic performances in the 'Stree' and 'Fukrey' franchises.

In the video, Imtiaz Ali appears to be discussing the plans for the potential film titled 'Side Heroes' with the actors, bringing to the fore a surprising Bhojpuri accent as he interacts with a friend over the phone.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DM2crZ7xyji/

Further in the video, the filmmaker teases a story based on lifelong friends through a filter of humour and emotions. "Dosti celebrate karne ka time aa gaya hai! To all the friends on the eve of Friendship Day," the makers wrote in the caption.

Directed by Ssanjay Tripathy, the film is written by Siddharth Sen and Pankaj Matta. Imtiaz Ali will produce the film alongside Mahaveer Jain, Reeyan M Shah, and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba.

Sharing an update on the project, Varun Sharma expressed his delight over working with a dream team on a film, which he said is "made by friends and for friends."

https://www.instagram.com/p/DM4ZUfkK9JC/

"A Team with all Heart and so much Love. With a big smile on my face and a lot of gratitude in my heart, I can't express the happiness to be working with this amazing dream team. A Film made by friends, for all the friends out there. Dosti ka jo emotion hota hai na usse upar kuch nahi. Can't wait for the magic to unfold and the world to witness this amazingly beautiful Script. Milte hai agle Friendship Day 2026 ko Cinemas main "Side Heroes" ke saath," he wrote on Instagram.

Varun also shared BTS pictures from the team meeting, showing everyone in full spirits.

'Side Heroes' is expected to go on floors this year and will hit theatres on Friendship Day 2026.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Ananya R
Why announce a film releasing in 2026 now? Feels like unnecessary hype building. Would rather see actual content than just announcements. Hope it doesn't get delayed like most Bollywood projects.
V
Varun X
Imtiaz Ali + comedy genre is an interesting combo! His films always have depth. Hope this maintains his signature emotional storytelling while making us laugh. Jai Maharashtra! 🙏
S
Sarah B
As someone who loved Tamasha and Highway, I'm curious how Imtiaz will handle pure comedy. The cast looks perfect though - these actors have such natural chemistry together.
K
Kavya N
Friendship Day pe release is such a smart move! Perfect for college groups to watch together. Hope they show real Indian friendships - not just the urban elite types we usually see.
M
Michael C
The Bhojpuri accent bit sounds hilarious! Indian cinema needs more regional flavor. Hope they incorporate different cultures authentically rather than as caricatures.

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