Haiwaan Secures Massive Pre-Release Deal With Sony Pictures
Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan’s upcoming thriller Haiwaan has scored a major win even before hitting theatres. The highly anticipated film, directed by celebrated filmmaker Priyadarshan, has officially locked its digital and satellite rights with Sony Pictures Networks India, giving the project a significant pre-release boost and placing it among the most talked-about films of 2026.
According to industry sources, Haiwaan has secured a massive digital and satellite agreement with Sony Pictures Networks India. The deal covers both television broadcast and digital streaming rights, signalling strong confidence in the film’s commercial and audience potential.
Also, Haiwaan marks the first collaboration between KVN Productions and Thespian Films, and the producers were keen on partnering with a network that could ensure wide reach across platforms.
While the exact financial details remain undisclosed, the deal is being described within trade circles as one of the most significant pre-release agreements for a Hindi thriller in recent times.
Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan Reunite After Years
One of the biggest talking points surrounding Haiwaan is the reunion of Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, who are sharing screen space after a long gap. The duo last worked together in Tashan (2008), making this collaboration particularly exciting for fans and industry watchers alike.
This time around, however, the actors are stepping into very different cinematic territory. Unlike their previous outings, Haiwaan places them in a tense, high-stakes narrative built around psychological conflict, action, and suspense.
Their casting alone has generated considerable buzz, with audiences curious to see how the two stars match up in a darker, more intense setup.
A Fierce FaceOff: Akshay’s Dark Turn vs Saif’s Layered Hero
One of the biggest highlights of Haiwaan is the intense showdown between Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, both stepping into strikingly unconventional roles. Akshay takes on a rare negative character: a rugged, menacing antagonist that marks a sharp departure from his usual action-hero image. Early glimpses from the sets hint at one of his most intense performances in recent years, with insiders suggesting his character drives the film’s gripping mouse-chasing narrative.
Opposite him, Saif Ali Khan plays a visually impaired man blessed with heightened sensory abilities, including acute hearing and smell. Relying on instinct and intelligence rather than brute strength, Saif’s character brings emotional depth and quiet resilience to the thriller. The role reportedly demanded significant preparation, blending vulnerability with strength, and setting the stage for a powerful psychological clash between the two stars.
Inspired by Malayalam Hit Oppam
Haiwaan is the Hindi adaptation of Priyadarshan’s acclaimed Malayalam thriller Oppam (2016), which starred Mohanlal in the lead. The original film was widely praised for its taut storytelling, making it a strong candidate for a Hindi retelling.
While the core premise remains intact, Haiwaan has been reimagined for a wider Hindi-speaking audience, with updated treatment, larger action set pieces, and a more expansive narrative scale.
Adding to the nostalgia factor, Mohanlal is expected to make a special cameo in the Hindi version, a surprise element that director Priyadarshan has hinted will delight fans of the original.
What the Sony Deal Means for Haiwaan
Securing a digital and satellite deal with Sony Pictures Networks India well ahead of release places Haiwaan in a strong commercial position. The partnership ensures maximum post-theatrical reach, expanding the film’s life beyond cinemas and tapping into television and streaming audiences nationwide. Such deals are crucial for big-budget films, and Haiwaan’s early success on this front highlights its strong market appeal.
Release Date Announcement Expected Soon
While the theatrical release date is yet to be officially announced, sources suggest the makers are eyeing a strategic window in 2026. With post-production nearing completion and promotional plans gearing up, fans can expect teasers, posters, and the first trailer to drop soon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will Haiwaan be released?
The official theatrical release date has not yet been announced, but the film is expected to be released in 2026.
2. Has Haiwaan locked its OTT release?
Yes, Haiwaan has secured its digital and satellite rights with Sony Pictures Networks India.
3. Is Akshay Kumar playing a villain in the movie?
Yes, Akshay’s role in Haiwaan is being described as one of his most intense negative performances in recent years.
4. Is Haiwaan a remake or a sequel?
Haiwaan is a remake, not a sequel. The film is the official Hindi adaptation of Priyadarshan’s 2016 Malayalam thriller Oppam.
Final Words
With a powerful cast, a proven director, a compelling story, and now a major Sony digital and satellite deal, Haiwaan is steadily emerging as one of Bollywood’s most awaited thrillers of 2026. Whether it’s Akshay Kumar’s rare negative role, Saif Ali Khan’s layered performance, or Priyadarshan’s gripping direction, the film has all the ingredients to make a strong impact.
As anticipation continues to build, Haiwaan looks ready to roar loud on the big screen before making its way into homes across the country.
