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2025 is seeing a refreshing wave of actors stepping behind the camera to tell stories on their own terms, exploring new creative avenues as directors and producers.
From streaming platforms to pan-India spectacles, these actors are taking control of stories they wish to tell, proving 2025 is the year of creative expansion in Indian cinema. Here are some of the exciting names to watch:
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha – Toaster
Power couple Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha are stepping into the role of producers with Toaster, a Netflix film that marks their first project together as producers, expanding their creative horizons beyond acting.
Anshuman Jha – Lakadbaggha 2: The Monkey Business & Lord Curzon Ki Haveli
Actor-filmmaker Anshuman Jha is set to direct not one but two films this year. He will helm Lakadbaggha 2: The Monkey Business with international cast and crew, expanding India’s first animal lover vigilante universe, and the dark comedy Lord Curzon Ki Haveli. Anshuman is set to bring his unique storytelling style and passion to the director’s chair in 2025.
Priyanshu Painyuli – Jaagar
Known for Mirzapur and Extraction, Priyanshu Painyuli is making his directorial and production debut with Jaagar. Set in the mountains of Uttarakhand, Jaagar is a personal and culturally rooted story, marking a new chapter in Priyanshu’s creative journey.
Vir Das – Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos
Comedian and actor Vir Das will co-direct and star in Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos, produced by Aamir Khan. This comedy-thriller marks Vir Das’ directorial debut and adds another exciting layer to his multi-hyphenate career.
Abhishek Banerjee – Stolen
Acclaimed actor Abhishek Banerjee turned executive producer with the critically acclaimed Stolen, where he also played the lead role. His involvement as executive producer showcased his commitment to meaningful, impactful cinema.
Rishabh Shetty – Kantara: Chapter 1
After the blockbuster success of Kantara, Rishabh Shetty is back to direct and star in Kantara: Chapter 1, taking the franchise pan-India. His storytelling style rooted in folklore and local culture has already struck a chord, and his return behind the camera is highly anticipated.
