Sidharth Malhotra to replace Akshay Kumar in Rowdy Rathore 2, with Kiara Advani as leading lady

The 2012 Bollywood film "Rowdy Rathore," a remake of the Telugu blockbuster "Vikramarkudu," catapulted Akshay Kumar into one of his most popular roles since "Hera Pheri." The producers of "Rowdy Rathore," Shabina Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, are now gearing up for a sequel, but this time, without Akshay Kumar. Instead, the sequel will feature Sidharth Malhotra, known for his acting chops in action and comedy genres, in the lead role of a rowdy cop who leaves no stone unturned to bring criminals to justice, even if it means compromising grammar.

Rowdy Rathore 2 to gyi bey Shuturmurg ???? https://t.co/vMzqXizZ8h pic.twitter.com/Dizeo3HAc1

— ☬ ℝ???????????????? ℍ???????????????? ☬ (@King_SIayer_) April 11, 2023

It may be difficult to envision anyone else besides Akshay Kumar playing the iconic character of Rathore. However, Akshay has reportedly declined the offer to reprise his role in the sequel. Meanwhile, Sidharth Malhotra, fresh off his recent marriage, has been offered the leading role in "Rowdy Rathore 2." His wife, Kiara Advani, is also rumored to be in the running for the female lead.

Kya Akshay Kumar jaisi acting kar payega sidharth Malhotra jindgi me bhi nhi.Without Akshay Kumar no Rowdy Rathore 2#RowdyRathore2 #Akshaykumar #sonakshisinha pic.twitter.com/oua6QzmstF

— Ashwani Kumar (@kumar_garhi) April 12, 2023

Anees Bazmee, the self-proclaimed king of comedy, has been roped in to direct the sequel. The first installment of "Rowdy Rathore" was directed by Prabhudheva, who had several creative differences with producer Bhansali during the making of the film.

According to reports, Sidharth Malhotra has also been offered a significant role in another action-comedy series, directed by Rohit Shetty. Additionally, he is set to make his OTT debut in the web series "Indian Police Force," where he will be seen as a tough cop, starring alongside Vivek Oberoi and Shilpa Shetty.

Sidharth Malhotra has been busy juggling multiple projects, including "Yodha," directed by Sagar Ambre and Pushkar Ojha, with the support of Karan Johar. The film also stars Raashii Khanna and Disha Patani and is slated to release on July 7. It will go head-to-head at the box office with Ayushmann Khurrana's upcoming comedy "Dream Girl 2."

- PTC PUNJABI