Akshaye Khanna or Nawazuddin Siddiqui in talks to play antagonist in Tumbbad 2

Akshaye Khanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui

The buzz around Tumbbad's sequel has intensified ever since actor-producer Sohum Shah officially joined hands with Pen Studios, helmed by veteran producer Jayantilal Gada. With a studio known for mounting cinematic spectacles like RRR and Gangubai Kathiawadi backing the sequel, trade circles are already positioning Tumbbad 2 as one of the most ambitious projects currently in development.

Tumbbad 2 casting in works

Released in 2018, Tumbbad evolved from a sleeper hit into a globally celebrated cult phenomenon. Its 2024 re-release further strengthened its legacy, drawing new audiences into its haunting world of greed, mythology, and psychological horror. Now, with the sequel set to go on floors early this year, the makers are looking to deepen and expand the dark universe that redefined Indian fantasy-horror.

Amid mounting anticipation, fresh industry chatter suggests that the sequel's antagonist could be a major casting masterstroke.

Akshaye and Nawazuddin in consideration

"A powerful antagonist is central to the narrative of Tumbbad 2. The team is keen on elevating the sequel with a layered and formidable negative lead," shared a source close to the development. "Akshaye Khanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui are two names currently being discussed. Their ability to portray morally complex, unpredictable characters makes them compelling choices for the world of Tumbbad."

According to the source, the makers aim to introduce an antagonist who is not just menacing but deeply layered - someone who can stand toe-to-toe with Sohum's character in terms of intensity and depth.

For Sohum Shah, Tumbbad 2 marks not just a sequel but a strategic expansion of a cinematic universe he has passionately nurtured over the years. As both actor and producer under his banner Sohum Shah Films, he has remained deeply invested in preserving the tonal integrity and mythological richness that made the original a landmark film. His collaboration with Pen Studios signals a larger vision, combining creative ambition with robust production backing.

With Pen Studios' scale and distribution strength, and speculation mounting over who will play the antagonist, Tumbbad 2 appears poised to raise the stakes both narratively and cinematically. While an official casting announcement is awaited, industry buzz suggests that the next chapter in the Tumbbad universe could be darker, grander, and more intense than before.