Kartik Aaryan and Kabir Khan Team Up Again for Ladaku With June 2027 Release
The actor and director duo behind Chandu Champion are back for a new sports-themed biographical drama inspired by real-life events.
Published 4 November 2026
The Reunion of Star and Director
Bollywood performer Kartik Aaryan is collaborating once more with filmmaker Kabir Khan on a fresh cinematic project titled Ladaku. This new venture brings the creative pair back together nearly two years after their previous joint effort, Chandu Champion, which brought Kartik his first National Film Award in the Best Actor category.
The upcoming feature has officially secured a worldwide theatrical release date of June 18, 2027. Fans of both the actor and the director have eagerly awaited news of their next partnership, especially following the critical acclaim and recognition earned by their biographical sports drama released in 2024.
Inspiration and Real-Life Roots
Ladaku is structured as an emotional family entertainer rooted in extraordinary real-life occurrences. Early reports indicate the plot will center around a kickboxing coach who mentors a young Kashmiri girl, helping her attain international glory in the sport.
The narrative draws heavily from the real-life journey of Tajamul Islam, who famously achieved the status of a world kickboxing champion at the tender age of seven. To prepare for the intense demands of the character, Kartik has undergone dedicated physical training, with production schedules taking the crew to locations in Mumbai and Kashmir.
Continuing a Sports Drama Tradition
While both Chandu Champion and Ladaku fall under the sports genre, the filmmakers have approached the storytelling from different angles. The earlier film chronicled the remarkable life of Murlikant Petkar, India's inaugural Paralympic gold medallist.
Conversely, the new project emphasizes the intricate bond between a mentor and a young competitor navigating severe hardships. Kabir Khan, known for helming acclaimed features like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and 83, continues his exploration of human resilience against daunting odds.
Kartik Aaryan Steps into Production
Beyond his acting duties, Kartik is expanding his involvement in the industry by making his debut as a producer. He established his own banner, Dopamine Studios, after developing a deep personal connection to the underlying narrative of the film.
This entrepreneurial step highlights a growing trend among prominent Bollywood stars who choose to participate actively in the business side of filmmaking. Ladaku is co-backed by Kabir Khan Entertainment, Ananya Birla's Birla Studios, and Kartik's newly launched production company.
A Busy Slate for 2027
Following a quiet year without any theatrical appearances in 2026, Kartik has lined up a prolific schedule for the first half of 2027. Ladaku is just one of three major movies preparing to hit cinema screens during that period.
His upcoming slate kicks off with the fantasy comedy Naagzilla on February 12, followed by a romantic drama directed by Anurag Basu and co-starring Sreeleela on April 30. Ladaku will then arrive in June, showcasing a diverse range of genres for his audience.
Production Backing and Future Updates
The project has undergone some evolution in its backing, with Birla Studios stepping in alongside the primary production houses. Earlier developmental phases had associated Applause Entertainment with the feature before the current partnership was finalized.
With the official title and release window now public knowledge, audiences can anticipate further announcements regarding the remaining cast members and the official marketing campaign in the upcoming months.
News Overview
Actor Kartik Aaryan and director Kabir Khan are reuniting for Ladaku, a real-life-inspired sports drama scheduled for a worldwide release on June 18, 2027. The film draws inspiration from kickboxer Tajamul Islam and features Kartik as a coach alongside his debut as a producer through Dopamine Studios.
Key facts
- Kartik Aaryan and Kabir Khan are reuniting for Ladaku.
- Ladaku is scheduled for a worldwide release on June 18, 2027.
- Their previous collaboration, Chandu Champion, was released in 2024 and earned Kartik a National Film Award for Best Actor.
- Tajamul Islam became a world kickboxing champion at the age of seven.
- Kartik launched his production company, Dopamine Studios, earlier in the year.
- Ladaku is backed by Birla Studios, Kabir Khan Entertainment, and Dopamine Studios.
- Kartik's 2027 slate includes Naagzilla on February 12, an Anurag Basu romantic drama with Sreeleela on April 30, and Ladaku in June.