'Dunki': SRK, his 'Santa Claus' Rajkumar Hirani announce first collaboration
What's the story
Shah Rukh Khan and Rajkumar Hirani are teaming up for real! The duo took to social media to announce their upcoming film and its release date, too. Titled Dunki, it will hit the theaters on December 22, 2023. This means SRK's fans will celebrate both Republic Day and Christmas with him next year as his upcoming film Pathaan is a January 25, 2023 outing.
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Why does this story matter?
Rumors about Hirani collaborating with Khan had been doing the rounds for a long time. But there had been no confirmation until now. Taapsee Pannu being roped in as the female lead had also been speculated. Largely, the rumors have turned out to be true. "Finally, it's happening! I feel overwhelmed," Pannu posted on social media, and we understand this excitement.
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How was the announcement made?
The film was launched via a funny video posted by Red Chillies Entertainment, one of the producers. In it, we see Khan looking at posters of Hirani's previous directorial ventures and admiring the "iconic characters." After a while, Hirani interrupts his thought process and asks what he is doing. Gushing over the films, Khan then asks Hirani sheepishly if there's any script for him.
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'Dunki' is 'donkey' to Khan!
Hirani confirms there is one film and eventually reveals it has "emotions, ample comedy, and romance (but without Khan's signature stretched-out hand pose)." Upon asking about the title, the director says "Dunki," which Khan mistakes for "donkey." But given his strong urge to do a Hirani-helmed film, the helpless actor relents. The video then veers to a desert landscape over which an airplane passes.
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Know more about the film
Is Dunki about an airplane incident set in a desert? Well, only time will tell. Co-produced by Jio Studios and Rajkumar Hirani Films, the upcoming movie has reportedly already hit the floors. "Dear @RajkumarHirani sir, Aap toh Mere Santa Claus nikle. Aap shuru karo main time pe pahunch jaunga. Actually main toh set par hi rehne lagunga," tweeted Khan, referring to his infamous unpunctuality.