'Stree 2' producers announce new movie 'Thama'. No Shraddha Kapoor. Check the new film's star cast and release date

‘Stree 2’ producers Maddock Films have now announced their next project. However, their next movie, which stars ‘Animal’ star Rashmika Mandana and ‘Dream Girl’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana, would be a supernatural romance rather than a horror comedy like the ‘Stree’ franchise.

The new film titled Thama was announced on Wednesday, October 30. Actors Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, known for Stree 2, took to Instagram to share their enthusiasm, stating it’s "going to be epic." Varun Dhawan, famous for his role in Bhediya, also welcomed Thama, humorously warning her to watch out for Bhediya. Rao posted the movie announcement video on his Instagram stories, saying, "#THAMA is going to be epic. Congratulations to #DineshVijan and @amarkaushik, brothers. Shoutout to @ayushmannk bhai @rashmika_mandanna @pareshrawalofficial sir @nawazuddin.__siddiqui @maddockfilms."

Shraddha expressed her excitement with the comment, "Bloody excited for this." Varun added his thoughts, writing, "Welcome Thama, but be cautious of Bhediya."

The first-look video of the film featured Ayushmann’s name ominously inscribed in what looked like blood, accompanied by the unsettling sounds of bats in the background. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, who gained recognition from Munjya, the script is penned by Niren Bhatt, Suresh Mathew, and Arun Fulara. Thama is set for a significant Diwali release in 2025, joining Maddock’s horror-comedy universe, which includes Stree, Stree 2, Munjya, and the Bhediya series.

While many details are still undisclosed, the main cast has been confirmed. Alongside Ayushmann Khurrana, Thama includes Rashmika Mandanna, Paresh Rawal, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in prominent roles. Ayushmann will portray a man who becomes a vampire and teased his character's appearance on Instagram a day before the official reveal by posting a photo of himself with a vampire filter, featuring red eyes and blood dripping from his mouth.

According to a report from Pinkvilla, Thama is expected to explore two different timelines: a contemporary North Indian city and the historical Vijayanagara Empire. Nawazuddin Siddiqui will play the main antagonist, a fierce figure from centuries ago who seeks revenge in the present.

With an exciting storyline and significant anticipation from fans, Thama has created considerable buzz as a new entry in the horror-comedy genre.

Meanwhile, Ayushmann, who has been absent from films for some time, is optimistic that Thama will mark a successful return at the box office following a series of recent challenges. This film could serve as a pivotal moment for him.

Production is slated to begin by the end of 2024. This film will be the first collaboration between Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, with both actors expected to portray unique character arcs that will surprise audiences.