Kartik Aaryan trains as a coach for Kabir Khan’s film on Tajamul Islam’s life.
The Mentor’s Gambit
What happens when a “mass” superstar decides to stop being the hero and starts being the one who creates them?
In his upcoming untitled collaboration with Kabir Khan, Kartik Aaryan is flipping the script. Instead of the young prodigy, he’s stepping into the shoes of a coach—a man tasked with guiding a young Kashmiri girl from a conflict-affected region to the world kickboxing stage.
Based on the real-life miracle of Tajamul Islam, who became a world champion at just seven years old, this film isn’t just about sports; it’s about the resilience of a region that the world often only sees through the lens of struggle.
The Kashmir Chronicles
The production has already hit the ground running in Srinagar and Pahalgam. Unlike the glossy, romantic versions of Kashmir we often see in Bollywood, Kabir Khan’s films tend to lean into the grit of the location.
Aaryan has reportedly undergone “massive physical training” to look the part, aiming for a look that reflects the wear and tear of a veteran athlete turned mentor.
- The Timeline: Shooting resumes in March, with a wrap expected by October 2026.
- The Target: A mid-2027 theatrical release designed to capture the “prestige” movie-going crowd.
A Diverse Portfolio
While the Kabir Khan project is grounded in reality, Kartik’s surrounding lineup is wildly eclectic. He is currently working on Naagzilla: Naag Lok Ka Pehla Kaand with Dharma Productions—a VFX-heavy spectacle that demands a “completely new physical transformation.”
Following that, he dives into Captain India with the legendary Shimit Amin, portraying a pilot leading a high-stakes rescue mission based on Operation Rahat.
Then there’s the romance. His musical with Sreeleela, now titled Tu Meri Zindagi Hai, is set to release later this year, satisfying the fans who still want to see the “Aashiqui-style” charm that made him a household name.
The Kabir Khan “Conflict” Signature
Most critics focus on the sports aspect, but the real depth lies in the setting. Kabir Khan has a unique ability to weave geopolitical tension into personal triumphs (Bajrangi Bhaijaan, 83).
By setting this story in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district, he is exploring the “conflict-affected” psyche. The film will likely explore how sport acts as a bridge and a sanctuary for children in volatile zones.
For Aaryan, playing a coach in this environment requires a level of emotional gravitas we haven’t seen from him before.
Why the “Coach” Role is a Career Savior
- The Longevity Play: Actors who only play the “young lead” have an expiration date. By transitioning to “mentor” roles now, Kartik is setting himself up for a decades-long career.
- Avoid the “Hagiography” Trap: The danger of real-life stories is making them too perfect. The best Kabir Khan films succeed because the heroes are flawed; Kartik needs to lean into the “cynical” side of coaching to make the payoff work.
- VFX vs. Heart: While Naagzilla will have the big visuals, the untitled Kabir Khan film will provide the “awards season” credibility. Balance is key.
Key Takeaways:
- Kartik Aaryan plays a coach in a new Kabir Khan film based on kickboxer Tajamul Islam.
- The film is currently being shot on location in Kashmir (Srinagar and Pahalgam).
- Aaryan’s 2026/2027 lineup includes Captain India, Naagzilla, and the musical Tu Meri Zindagi Hai.
- The Kabir Khan project is slated for a mid-2027 theatrical release.
लेटेस्ट इंडियन सेलिब्रिटी न्यूज़, एक्सक्लूसिव अपडेट्स और ट्रेंडिंग गॉसिप का आपका डेली डोज़। बॉलीवुड और उससे आगे भी जुड़े रहें!