Malayalam superstar Tovino Thomas’ much-anticipated period drama Pallichattambi is set for a worldwide theatrical release on April 9, 2026, the makers announced on Tuesday with the unveiling of the first-look motion poster. The big-budget film, directed by Dijo Jose Antony, will hit screens across languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

Thomas is best known for the critically acclaimed superhero film Minnal Murali, which streamed globally and cemented his popularity beyond the Malayalam belt. Pallichattambi now positions him for a broader theatrical footprint across India.

Produced jointly by World Wide Films and C Qube Bros Entertainments, Pallichattambi marks a significant outing for Thomas, who appears in a striking new avatar in the motion poster that dropped online earlier today. The period narrative, scripted by S Suresh Babu, transports audiences to the 1950s-60s, blending historical texture with a dramatic storyline.The film also stars Kayadu Lohar as the female lead, supported by a strong ensemble including Vijayaraghavan, Sudheer Karamana, Baburaj, Vinod Kedamangalam and Prashanth Alexander, among others. Set against a richly detailed backdrop, the production aims to evoke the era’s cultural ethos through meticulous design and cinematography.

Tijo Tomy has handled the film’s cinematography, while acclaimed composer Jakes Bejoy is responsible for the music score. Editing is by Sreejith Sarang, with Dileep Nath overseeing production design. The technical team also includes costume lead Manjusha Radhakrishnan and makeup designer Rasheed Ahammed while Meghasyam and Thanzeer are on board as associate producers.

In addition to the core production crew, Pallichattambi credits Renit Raj and Kiran Raphael as chief associate directors, with Sync Cinema on sound design and Yellowtooths handling poster designs.

The announcement of the April release has already sparked excitement among fans and industry observers, especially given the film’s pan-Indian rollout strategy and Thomas’ growing presence across Indian cinema

Nearly three decades after Border (1997) became a landmark in Indian war cinema, Border 2 is set to revive the legacy with a grand, emotionally charged sequel. Directed by Anurag Singh and produced by T-Series in collaboration with J.P. Films, the film stands among the most awaited Hindi releases of 2026. Designed as both a tribute and a progression, Border 2 aims to connect generations through courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.

Release and Strategic Timing

Border 2 is scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on January 23, 2026, aligning perfectly with the Republic Day weekend. This timing underscores the film’s patriotic core and positions it as a major holiday release, much like its predecessor, which resonated deeply with audiences during a similar nationalistic wave.

A Powerful Ensemble Cast

The sequel brings together a compelling mix of legacy actors and contemporary stars. Sunny Deol returns to the battlefield as Fateh Singh Kaler, now portrayed as a seasoned senior soldier whose experience anchors the story. His presence serves as an emotional bridge to the original film.

Joining him is Varun Dhawan, who steps into the role of Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, representing a new generation of army leadership—driven, fearless, and deeply committed to duty. Diljit Dosanjh takes on the role of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, adding depth and dignity to the Indian Air Force’s representation in the narrative.

A particularly meaningful addition is Ahan Shetty, whose character is reportedly connected to the role played by his father, Suniel Shetty, in the original Border. This casting choice reinforces the film’s theme of legacy and generational continuity.

The ensemble is further strengthened by Mona Singh, Sonam Bajwa, Medha Rana, and Anya Singh, who bring emotional balance to the intense war backdrop by portraying families, loved ones, and individuals affected by conflict beyond the battlefield.

Story and Setting

Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Border 2 explores a larger and more complex military conflict than the first film. While the original focused heavily on the Battle of Longewala, the sequel reportedly expands its scope to show coordinated efforts across land and air, emphasizing how unity and sacrifice shape the nation’s destiny.

At its heart, the film tells the story of soldiers who inherit the responsibility of defending the country, even as the nature of warfare evolves. It highlights not just action and strategy, but also the emotional cost of war—separation, loss, and unwavering resolve.

Teaser and Music: Stirring National Emotion

The teaser, released on December 16, 2025, coinciding with Vijay Diwas, instantly reignited nostalgia while setting a more intense tone for the sequel. The line “Aawaz kaha tak jaani chahiye? Lahore tak!” captured public attention, signaling the film’s bold narrative stance and high emotional stakes.

Music continues to play a vital role in Border 2. The first single, “Ghar Kab Aaoge”, unveiled on January 2, 2026, is a reimagined tribute to the iconic “Sandese Aate Hai.” Launched at a grand event in Longewala and Jaisalmer, the song blends modern orchestration with heartfelt lyrics, evoking both nostalgia and renewed emotion.

Production Scale and Vision

Principal photography wrapped up in December 2025, with the climax shot on an expansive scale, reflecting the filmmakers’ commitment to authenticity and spectacle. Director Anurag Singh, known for handling large-scale narratives with emotional depth, brings a contemporary cinematic approach while respecting the legacy of the original film.

Anticipation and Legacy

With its mix of legacy characters, fresh faces, rousing music, and a historically significant setting, Border 2 is more than just a sequel—it is a continuation of a cultural phenomenon. As audiences prepare to revisit the battlefield in 2026, the film promises to honor the past while delivering a powerful, modern war epic for a new generation.

Comedian Bharti Singh and her husband, Haarsh Limbachiyaa, welcomed their second son on December 19, 2025, after Bharti went into labour while filming Laughter Chefs Season 3. She was taken to a nearby hospital and delivered a healthy baby boy.

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They are already parents to a three-year-old son, Lakshya, called Gola. They had hoped for a baby girl, but Bharti and Haarsh are delighted with their second son and embrace the moment with joy and gratitude.

Staying true to her strong work ethic, Bharti continued fulfilling her professional commitments throughout her pregnancy, just as she did during her first. In the weeks leading up to the delivery, she shared moments from her journey through a stylish maternity photoshoot and a cheerful baby shower attended by close friends and family.

While celebrations are in full swing within the family, the couple has not yet issued an official announcement. Fans and colleagues from the entertainment industry are eagerly waiting to hear from the new parents as they celebrate this happy addition to their family.