The highly anticipated Dadasaheb Phalke biopic starring Aamir Khan and directed by Rajkumar Hirani has been delayed and will now begin production in late March 2026, according to multiple industry reports. The shift from the original January timeline comes as the actor-director duo refine the script to better honour the legacy of Dadasaheb Phalke, the pioneer often referred to as the Father of Indian cinema.
Delay to Focus on Script Quality
According to reports, both Hirani and Khan have decided to take extra time on the screenplay to strike the right emotional tone — ensuring the narrative feels emotionally contemporary while remaining rooted in historical authenticity. Insiders say the aim is to balance humour and sincerity in a way that properly reflects Phalke’s stature without trivialising his contributions. The new draft is expected to be finalised by February 2026, clearing the way for principal photography to begin in late March.
A source familiar with the project told Mid-Day that the rewrite was essential because both filmmakers agreed that “a personality as iconic as Dadasaheb Phalke deserves a script that is both emotionally stirring and universally engaging.”
What the Script Focuses On
The biopic aims to chronicle the extraordinary life and achievements of Phalke — from his early fascination with cinema to his groundbreaking production of Raja Harishchandra (1913), widely regarded as India’s first full-length feature film. While Phalke’s broad story arc was already mapped out, the creative team felt certain elements needed deeper emotional resonance and narrative strength to connect with modern audiences.
This involved multiple sessions between Aamir Khan and Hirani, who are known for their meticulous attention to storytelling and character development. Reports say earlier drafts leaned too heavily on straightforward historical narration, and the new revisions will aim for a more layered, compelling portrayal.
Impact on Production Schedule
While shooting was initially expected to begin in early 2026, the delay means that late March is now the official target for going on floors. This gives the team time to accomplish a final, polished script and plan production logistics accordingly.
Even with the shift, the film remains one of Bollywood’s most eagerly anticipated projects of 2026, as it reunites Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani for another major collaboration after their hits like 3 Idiots and PK.
What Happens Next
- February 2026: Script draft expected to be completed.
- Late March 2026: Principal photography slated to begin.
- Late 2026 / Early 2027: Projected release window (pending production and post-production schedule).
The project has been in development for several years, with the creative team determined to tell a story that not only celebrates Phalke’s contributions but also resonates with contemporary audiences — a balancing act that appears to be behind the production shift.
