R Madhavan to lead Vishal Furia's untitled horror film

R Madhavan will headline an untitled horror film directed by Vishal Furia, Variety India reported in an exclusive on Saturday.

Furia, whose horror films include Chhorii and Maa, told Variety India that Madhavan “was always my first and only choice.” He called the actor “the true OG horror star” of the cult film 13B, and said his “conviction, experience and understanding of serious horror are very rare.”

The fear they want audiences to feel

Bollywood Hungama and Moneycontrol carried a second comment from the director. “Madhavan sir has years of experience as a writer, director and producer, so it’s really special to have him with us on this film,” Furia said. “Together, we want to create something audiences have never seen before in Indian horror, the kind of fear they will feel in their bones.”

Rohit Ranjan will produce under Frostlit Production Limited, according to Bollywood Hungama, Moneycontrol, Filmfare and The Times of India. Hungama said the title, supporting cast and release date have not been announced. The Times of India reported that shooting is expected to begin in early 2027, and Filmfare also reported a 2027 start.

Back in the genre

Madhavan has led horror films before, in 13B and Shaitaan. He also made a surprise appearance in Furia’s Maa, starring Kajol, reprising Vanraj from Shaitaan, Variety India and The Times of India reported. Bollywood Hungama said this is the first time the two have worked together as actor and director on a feature.

Madhavan was last seen in Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which opened on 19 March 2026, according to Variety India and The Times of India. Filmfare described the new project as a psychological horror film.