Veer Pahariya's 'Prem Keetanu' to release on Gandhi Jayanti 2026
Synopsis
Fresh off his debut in 'Sky Force', Veer Pahariya pivots sharply with 'Prem Keetanu' — a relatable, youth-driven entertainer directed by Apoorv Singh Karki of 'Aspirants' fame, releasing on Gandhi Jayanti, 2 October 2026. It also marks the first production under Gaurav Verma's Avanika Films banner, making it a milestone for multiple careers simultaneously.
Key Takeaways
Veer Pahariya will be seen next in 'Prem Keetanu' , releasing worldwide on 2 October 2026 (Gandhi Jayanti).
The film explores the aspirations, relationships, and everyday struggles of young Indians.
Directed by Apoorv Singh Karki , known for 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' and 'Aspirants' .
Cast includes Aparshakti Khurana , Aafiya Sayed , Rakesh Bedi , and Nikhil Vijay . 'Prem Keetanu' is the debut production of Gaurav Verma's Avanika Films , co-presented by Phars Films .
Pahariya also has dark action thriller 'Naam – To Live Is War' in his upcoming lineup, presented by Mahesh Bhatt .
Actor Veer Pahariya, who made his Bollywood debut with the aerial action drama 'Sky Force', is set to return to the big screen with 'Prem Keetanu' — a contemporary entertainer releasing worldwide on 2 October 2026, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. The film centres on the aspirations, relationships, and everyday struggles of young Indians, marking a sharp tonal departure from Pahariya's debut role as Indian Air Force officer T. Vijaya.
What the Film Is About
'Prem Keetanu' is billed as a heartwarming and relatable story rooted in modern Indian life and love. The film presents Pahariya in a lighter, more grounded space — a deliberate contrast to the high-stakes military drama of his first outing. The ensemble cast includes Aparshakti Khurana, Aafiya Sayed, Rakesh Bedi, and Nikhil Vijay.
The Creative Team
The film is directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, known for the critically acclaimed courtroom drama 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' and the widely praised web series 'Aspirants'. 'Prem Keetanu' also marks the debut production of Gaurav Verma's banner Avanika Films, and is co-presented by Phars Films.
Veer Pahariya's Upcoming Lineup
Beyond 'Prem Keetanu', Pahariya has the dark action thriller 'Naam – To Live Is War' in his pipeline. The project is presented by veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt and directed by Sidhaant Sachdev. It also features Varun Sharma, who is reportedly set to essay a negative role for the first time. The film is produced by Riddhi Chawda and Utsav Upadhyay.
From Theatre to Bollywood
Pahariya, who comes from a prominent political family, pursued theatre, music, and dance before transitioning to films. He studied theatre during his education in the United States and also worked as an assistant director on Maddock Films' 'Bhediya'. His debut in 'Sky Force' marked a widely noted shift from behind-the-scenes work to a leading Bollywood role. With 'Prem Keetanu', he now attempts to broaden his range in front of the camera.
Point of View
But the real test is whether Pahariya can hold his own in an ensemble where Aparshakti Khurana commands natural audience affinity. The youth-aspiration genre is crowded; what separates breakouts from also-rans is specificity of character, not relatability of premise.
NationPress
12 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When does 'Prem Keetanu' release in cinemas?
'Prem Keetanu' is set to release worldwide on 2 October 2026, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. The date was announced alongside the film's cast and director details.
Who is directing 'Prem Keetanu'?
The film is directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, who previously helmed the acclaimed courtroom drama 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' and the popular web series 'Aspirants'.
Who stars alongside Veer Pahariya in 'Prem Keetanu'?
The film features Aparshakti Khurana, Aafiya Sayed, Rakesh Bedi, and Nikhil Vijay alongside Veer Pahariya.
What is Veer Pahariya's other upcoming film?
Pahariya also has 'Naam – To Live Is War', a dark action thriller presented by Mahesh Bhatt and directed by Sidhaant Sachdev, in his upcoming lineup. It also stars Varun Sharma, reportedly in a negative role for the first time.
What is Avanika Films?
Avanika Films is a production banner founded by Gaurav Verma. 'Prem Keetanu' marks its debut production, co-presented by Phars Films.
