Mumbai: Actor Varun Dhawan is set to lead Yash Raj Films' (YRF) first-ever theatrical horror film, marking the production house's official entry into the horror genre. The project will be directed by Abhay Pannu, best known for creating the critically acclaimed SonyLIV series Rocket Boys.

According to industry sources, the film is expected to go on floors later this year and is being planned for a theatrical release in 2027. Abhay Pannu has also written the screenplay, making this his theatrical directorial debut after earning widespread praise for his work in the streaming space.

A source close to the development said that Varun Dhawan has come on board as the lead actor for the project, which is being strategically backed by Akshaye Widhani under the Yash Raj Films banner. While YRF has successfully explored genres ranging from romance and action to spy thrillers and drama, this will be the studio's first full-fledged horror film.

The project also reflects Aditya Chopra's continued focus on supporting emerging filmmakers with distinctive storytelling voices. In recent years, YRF has collaborated with directors such as Mohit Suri, Sameer Saxena, and now Abhay Pannu as part of its effort to diversify its content slate.

For Varun Dhawan, the film marks his second collaboration with Yash Raj Films after the success of Sui Dhaaga: Made in India (2018), in which he starred opposite Anushka Sharma. The actor, known for balancing commercial entertainers with content-driven films, will now venture into a theatrical horror project under one of India's biggest production houses.

Neither Yash Raj Films nor Varun Dhawan has officially revealed the film's title, cast, or plot details. However, the announcement has generated significant interest as YRF prepares to enter a genre it has never explored in its five-decade-long cinematic journey.

With production scheduled to begin later this year, more details about the film, including its supporting cast and storyline, are expected to be announced in the coming months.