'Laapataa Ladies' star Pratibha to join Kartik in 'Naagzilla'?
What's the story
Pratibha Ranta, the breakout star of Laapataa Ladies (2024), is being considered for the female lead in Kartik Aaryan's upcoming film Naagzilla: Naag Lok Ka Pehla Kaand. The creature comedy, directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and produced by Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films, began shooting recently.
Casting considerations
Sanya Malhotra was the 1st choice for 'Naagzilla'
Initially, Sanya Malhotra was the first choice for the female lead in Naagzilla. However, the makers have expanded their search and are now considering Ranta for the role. A source close to the project revealed to Mid-Day, "Sanya Malhotra was the makers' first choice and everyone on the team had assumed she would be signed long ago." "But recent developments suggest that the team has widened their search and is now considering Pratibha."
Career progression
Ranta has a Maddock Films project lined up
Ranta recently completed shooting for Anubhuti Kashyap's directorial venture, produced under Karan Johar's banner. This has made her an attractive option for Naagzilla as the makers believe she hasn't been "overexposed" on screen yet. However, there may be a potential roadblock in the form of scheduling conflicts. The source added, "Pratibha has a movie lined up with Maddock Films, which is expected to roll in early 2026." "If there are no date clashes, she will headline 'Naagzilla' opposite Kartik."