7 Bollywood directorial debuts that are defining 2026
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Vir Das
The comedian-actor made his directorial debut with Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, a spy comedy produced by Aamir Khan which released in January.
Radhika Bansal
A former corporate professional with no prior filmmaking background, Radhika has written and directed her feature debut, a family drama set to release on OTT
Shaneil Deo
A veteran cinematographer known for films like Goodachari, Shaneil Deo made his directorial debut with Dacoit: A Love Story, co-written with actor Adivi Sesh.
Aakash Kaushik
The writer of films like Housefull 4 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 & 3, Aakash Kaushik steps into direction with Udta Teer, a Dharma Productions romantic comedy.
Ritesh Shah
The writer of films like Kahaani, Pink, and Airlift is set to make his directorial debut with Ghooskhor Pandat, a crime drama produced by Neeraj Pandey.
Vikram Phadnis
The celebrated fashion designer made his Hindi directorial debut with Pal Bhar Ke Liye, which had its world premiere at IFFM in August 2026.
Shiv Rawail
Son of veteran director Rahul Rawail, Shiv made his feature directorial debut with Alpha, the first female-led installment in YRF`s Spy Universe.
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