Bandar, the upcoming feature directed by Anurag Kashyap and led by Bobby Deol, is set for a worldwide theatrical release on 5 June, the makers have announced. The film will open in cinemas a day after Geetu Mohandas directorial Toxic, headlined by Yash.
Bandar marks Kashyap’s return to the big screen after his 2025 September outing, Nishaanchi. The film is positioned as an intense drama, bringing together a creative team that includes writers Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee. Both writers are known for their work across film and streaming, with credits spanning Paatal Lok, Kohrra and Udta Punjab.
Kashyap, known for Gangs of Wasseypur, Dev D and Black Friday, has built a reputation for politically charged and character-driven storytelling. Bandar is expected to continue in a similar vein, though specific plot details have not yet been disclosed.
In Bandar (Monkey In A Cage), Deol plays a fading television star named Sabar who is accused of rape by his ex-girlfriend and taken into judicial custody.
Bandar had its world premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival in 2025, where it screened in the Special Presentation category. This is the first time Deol has collaborated with Kashyap as a director.
The project also continues a recent run of high-profile roles for Deol, who has re-emerged as a prominent presence across mainstream and streaming titles. He takes on the lead role in what is described as a performance-led narrative.
Produced by Nikhil Dwivedi and backed by Zee Studios, the film brings together a large ensemble cast. Alongside Deol, it features Sanya Malhotra, Raj B Shetty, Jitendra Joshi, Sapna Pabbi, Indrajith Sukumaran, Riddhi Sen, Saba Azad and Nagesh Bhosle in pivotal roles.
While the makers have positioned Bandar as a major theatrical offering for 2026, further details on its narrative and distribution scale remain under wraps.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Kashyap revealed he has written two new scripts for himself and would likely go on floors with both in 2026.