Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is all set to bring his next intense drama Bandar to theatres on May 22, 2026. Starring Bobby Deol in the lead role, the film recently had its world premiere at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival, where it was screened under the Special Presentations programme during its 50th edition.
After generating strong buzz at the international festival circuit, the makers have now locked the Indian theatrical release date, building anticipation among cinema lovers.
Box Office Clash On May 22
With Bandar arriving in cinemas on May 22, 2026, it will clash at the box office with Milap Zaveri’s Tera Yaar Hoon Main. While trade analysts expect a competitive opening weekend, the two films belong to different genres, which may help them attract distinct audience segments without significantly affecting each other’s collections.
What Inspired Anurag Kashyap To Make Bandar?
In an earlier conversation with Variety, Anurag Kashyap revealed that Bandar is inspired by real-life events. The filmmaker explained that the story emerged from a newspaper article shared by producer Nikhil Dwivedi, based on a controversial legal case.
Kashyap highlighted the moral ambiguity at the heart of the subject, stating that the narrative explores how new laws can sometimes be misused, leaving the line between right and wrong blurred. Known for tackling uncomfortable and layered themes, Kashyap once again steps into complex socio-legal territory with Bandar.
Bandar Storyline
The film also stars Saba Azad and Sanya Malhotra in pivotal roles.
Bandar revolves around Samar, a fading television star whose career is already on shaky ground. His life takes a dramatic turn when his ex-girlfriend Gayatri accuses him of rape after he cuts off contact with her. The accusation leads to his arrest and throws him into a legal system that appears more focused on detaining him than uncovering the truth.
Set against the backdrop of digital-age India and the ripple effects of the #MeToo movement, the film promises a tense courtroom and character-driven drama that questions perception, power, and justice.
What’s Next For Anurag Kashyap?
Even as Bandar gears up for release, Anurag Kashyap remains busy with multiple projects. The director is currently working on Nishaanchi Part 2, a sequel to his recent film. The project features Aaishvary Thackeray, Vedika Pinto, Monika Panwar, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in key roles.
With Bandar, Kashyap once again returns to bold storytelling rooted in realism. Backed by a compelling premise and Bobby Deol’s evolving screen presence, the film is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about releases of 2026.
Jay-Ho Spotlighted
With a gripping premise, festival acclaim from the Toronto International Film Festival, and Bobby Deol stepping into one of his most layered roles yet, Bandar is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most anticipated courtroom dramas. Known for pushing boundaries, Anurag Kashyap once again dives into morally complex territory, promising a film that will spark debate long after the credits roll. As May 22, 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on whether Bandar translates its international buzz into box office impact in India.
