Bollywood filmmaker and actor Farhan Akhtar's birthday on January 9 has ignited fresh speculation about the fate of his much-anticipated project, 'Jee Le Zaraa'. The celebratory wishes from leading actresses Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif have sent fans into a frenzy, with many interpreting the messages as subtle hints about the film's revival.
Celebrity Wishes Spark Speculation
Priyanka Chopra took to her Instagram story to wish her friend and collaborator. Her message, however, was more than a simple birthday note. She wrote, "Happy Birthday mere dost Farhan Akhtar. This year is going to be so special for you." This line has been widely decoded by fans and industry watchers as a possible reference to either 'Don 3' or, more excitingly, the long-pending road-trip drama 'Jee Le Zaraa'.
Not to be left behind, Katrina Kaif also extended warm birthday greetings to the 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' director. Her post read, "Happiest Birthday @faroutakhtar Wishing you the best year filled with lots of love and light." While seemingly straightforward, the timing of these wishes from two of the film's originally announced stars has collectively amplified the buzz.
Farhan Akhtar's Previous Update on 'Jee Le Zaraa'
The excitement finds its roots in Farhan Akhtar's own comments about the film's status. Speaking on the 'Our Stupid Reactions' podcast last year, Akhtar clarified that the project is not shelved but merely on the back burner. "I would hate to say that it is shelved. What I will say is that it is put on the back burner. It is a film that will happen," he stated emphatically.
He revealed that a significant amount of pre-production work is already complete. "It's too delicious a script. There's so much work that's already been done on it. I finished all the location scouts. I've recorded music for the film. All of this is done," Akhtar shared, adding that it's just a matter of time before the team reconvenes.
However, he also hinted at a potential casting shake-up, leaving the door open for changes. "I can’t comment on the cast anymore. Don’t know what that will be and when that will land. But will the film happen? The film will happen," he had said. This statement makes the birthday wishes from Priyanka and Katrina particularly intriguing, as it reignites hope for the original stellar lineup.
A Long-Awaited Project
Announced in 2021, 'Jee Le Zaraa' was billed as a female-led road trip adventure starring Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt, and Katrina Kaif. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, the film was slated to begin production in 2022 but faced repeated delays, primarily due to the pandemic and the busy schedules of its A-list cast. Strong rumours subsequently circulated about the film being shelved entirely, which Akhtar's comments last year aimed to dispel.
Meanwhile, Farhan Akhtar was recently seen in the film '120 Bahadur'. The movie received a mixed response, with a review noting issues with its supporting cast's utilization, narrative flow, and music.
As the birthday dust settles, the film industry and fans alike are left reading between the lines of social media posts. The combined effect of the hopeful birthday wishes and Akhtar's past assurances has successfully rekindled significant anticipation. Whether 2024 will indeed be the "special year" that sees 'Jee Le Zaraa' finally hit the road remains the big question on everyone's mind.
