But before you write off this fresh pairing, here is the plot twist: The rumors were fake. In a definitive statement yesterday (Wednesday), producer Karan Johar stepped in to clear the air, revealing that the film is not only alive but is just days away from completion.
Here is the complete story of the confusion, the comeback, and the two movies this duo is bringing to your screens.
The Rumor Mill: "Stuck in Limbo?" 🛑
The panic began on Tuesday (Jan 20) when several reports claimed that the untitled spy-comedy had hit a major roadblock.
The Claim: Reports suggested the film, which began shooting in mid-2024, had been "stuck" for over a year after its first schedule in Manali.
The Reason: Gossip columns cited "budget issues" and "creative differences" on whether to release the film in theaters or push it directly to streaming (OTT).
The Narrative: It painted a bleak picture of a project abandoned in post-production hell.
The Truth: "Just 10 Days Left!" ✅
Karan Johar, never one to let misinformation slide, officially shut down the speculation yesterday.
The Statement: Speaking to the press, Johar called the rumors "baseless" and provided a concrete status update.
"This is not true. We have just 10 days of shoot left, and we are very much releasing the film theatrically this year."
The Plan: He confirmed that the film is nearing the finish line and is firmly targeted for a 2026 Theatrical Release, not OTT.
What is the Movie Anyway? 🕵️♂️
For those confused about which movie this is (since Ayushmann and Sara are working together twice), here are the specifics:
Genre: It is a quirky Spy-Comedy / Action-Comedy.
Director: It marks the directorial debut of Aakash Kaushik, the writer known for penning the hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2.
The Plot: While details are hush-hush, insiders describe it as a "unique" espionage thriller where Ayushmann plays a character totally out of his element, paired with Sara's high-energy persona.
Wait, There’s Another One? (Double Trouble!)
Part of the confusion stems from the fact that Ayushmann and Sara are also starring in another film releasing very soon.
The Other Film: Pati Patni Aur Woh Do (The sequel to the 2019 hit).
Release Date: March 4, 2026 (Holi).
The Difference: That film is a romantic comedy directed by Mudassar Aziz. The "troubled" film is the spy-comedy produced by Karan Johar.
SantaBanta Verdict: Rest easy, fans. You aren't losing a movie; you are gaining two. First, catch them romancing in Pati Patni Aur Woh Do this Holi. Then, get ready to watch them save the world (and probably mess it up) in the Dharma spy-comedy later this year. The "Ayushmann-Sara Era" is officially safe!
