KKN Gurugram Desk | One of Bollywood’s most iconic comedy films, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), is all set to return with a sequel. However, the major twist in this much-anticipated project is that original stars Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar may not be part of the cast this time. According to sources, Varun Dhawan and Kartik Aaryan are being considered for the lead roles in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2, replacing the veteran superstars in this spiritual successor produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by David Dhawan.

Background: The Legacy of Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004)

Directed by David Dhawan and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the original Mujhse Shaadi Karogi was released in 2004 and starred Salman Khan (as Sameer), Akshay Kumar (as Sunny), and Priyanka Chopra (as Rani) in lead roles. The film was a commercial blockbuster and remains one of Bollywood’s most loved romantic comedies.

From Goa’s beaches to outrageous comic set-ups and memorable songs like Jeene Ke Hain Chaar Din and Lal Dupatta, the film combined romance, action, and comedy into a crowd-pleasing entertainer.

Now, a Sequel with a Twist

After the success of recent sequels like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Drishyam 2, and the planning around Kick 2 and Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, it’s only natural that filmmakers are revisiting other classics. According to reports from Mid-Day, Sajid Nadiadwala and David Dhawan are actively working on the script for Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2 — but this time with a fresh pair of leading men.

Will Varun Dhawan and Kartik Aaryan Replace Salman-Akshay?

According to sources quoted in the report:

“The makers are considering Varun Dhawan and Kartik Aaryan for the lead roles due to their excellent comic timing. They are aiming to recreate the quirky rivalry between ‘Sameer’ and ‘Sunny’, but with a modern twist.”

If finalised, this would mark the first time Varun and Kartik — both hugely successful contemporary actors — will share screen space in a full-fledged comedy.

Casting Not Official Yet – Work Still in Early Stages

Despite the buzz, the production team has not made any official announcements. The script is reportedly in early development, and final casting will depend on script approval and date coordination.

As per insiders:

“Both Varun and Kartik are busy with their respective projects – Varun with Bhediya 2 and Kartik with Nagajila. Coordinating schedules may take some time, but producers aim to finalize everything by end of 2025.”

Expected Release Timeline

If all goes according to plan, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2 is expected to go on floors by early 2026 with a tentative release around Independence Day weekend — a high-value box office slot in Indian cinema.

Will Priyanka Chopra Return as ‘Rani’?

One big question that fans are asking is whether Priyanka Chopra Jonas will reprise her role as ‘Rani’. There has been no confirmation or denial from the actress or the filmmakers yet. Given her international schedule and current focus on Hollywood projects, her involvement remains uncertain.

However, if the storyline is refreshed with new characters, it is also likely that a new female lead will be cast opposite the new male leads.

Why Kartik Aaryan and Varun Dhawan Make Sense

Both actors are box office draws and have proven track records in comedy and family entertainers:

• Kartik Aaryan has delivered hits like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Luka Chuppi, and Pati Patni Aur Woh

• Varun Dhawan, son of David Dhawan, has inherited his father’s knack for comedy with films like Judwaa 2, Main Tera Hero, and Coolie No.1

Industry insiders believe the duo’s youth appeal, comic energy, and dance skills will bring fresh life to the franchise.

Industry Reaction and Fan Expectations

The entertainment world is abuzz with reactions. Fans of the original film are divided:

• Some are excited to see a modern reboot with younger stars

• Others believe the original magic of Salman and Akshay is hard to recreate

Film critic Ramesh Bala tweeted:

“Salman-Akshay duo was iconic in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi. But if anyone can pull off a fun sequel in 2026, it’s Kartik and Varun.”

Social media platforms have already started trending hashtags like #MSK2, #KartikVarunInMSK2, and #SalmanAkshayNostalgia.

David Dhawan’s Return to Comedy

After taking a break from direction, David Dhawan’s involvement in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2 brings credibility and nostalgia to the project. Known for hit comedies like Judwaa, Biwi No.1, and Partner, his style of humor is tailored for mass appeal.

His last venture Coolie No. 1 with Varun Dhawan (a remake of his 1995 film) had mixed reviews but did well on OTT platforms. Fans are hopeful he’ll revive his vintage form with this franchise sequel.

Box Office Potential and Genre Appeal

If well-executed, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2 could tick all the right boxes:

• Mass appeal through slapstick comedy

• Family-friendly content

• Colorful music and dance sequences

• Multi-star cast value

With no confirmed big releases in August 2026 yet, this film could dominate the Independence Day weekend.

Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2 is a blend of nostalgia-driven cinema and next-gen Bollywood talent. While fans of the original may miss Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar, the possible pairing of Kartik Aaryan and Varun Dhawan adds a fresh twist to a timeless tale of love, rivalry, and outrageous fun.