Actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty is already gearing up for his next big-screen outing. The 46-year-old star is set to headline Jai Hanuman, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2024 blockbuster HanuMan. According to reports, the film will be officially launched on February 22 with a grand event planned in the historic town of Hampi.
The makers are reportedly planning a large-scale announcement ceremony in Hampi, Karnataka, with fans expected to be a part of the celebrations. Given the mythological and spiritual undertones of the franchise, Hampi — known for its ancient temples and rich heritage — serves as a fitting backdrop for the launch. The event is expected to formally unveil Jai Hanuman to audiences and mark the beginning of its promotional journey.
Directed by Prasanth Varma, the sequel falls into the action, adventure, fantasy, and mythological genres. Sources suggest that the filmmaker has completed the scripting process, and most of the pre-production work has already been locked in. With the groundwork largely in place, the team is preparing to move into the filming phase soon. Principal photography is reportedly scheduled to commence in April 2026.
Earlier reports indicated that Rishab Shetty would take on the pivotal role of Lord Hanuman in the sequel, a development that significantly heightened anticipation around the project. Known for his intense screen presence and powerful performances, Rishab stepping into a mythological character of such magnitude has generated considerable buzz among fans. If confirmed, his portrayal is expected to bring a fresh dimension to the expanding cinematic universe.
The expectations for Jai Hanuman are naturally sky-high, considering the phenomenal success of its predecessor. Released on January 12, 2024, HanuMan emerged as one of the biggest Telugu blockbusters of the year. Made on a modest budget, the film went on to earn approximately Rs. 223 crore in India during its lifetime run and about Rs. 278 crore worldwide. The impressive box office performance meant that the film collected nearly six to seven times its production cost, cementing its status as a massive commercial success.
At the time of its theatrical run, HanuMan achieved several notable milestones. It became the fourth highest-grossing Telugu film of 2024 and ranked as the tenth highest-grossing Indian film of the year. Additionally, it secured a place among the highest-grossing Telugu films of all time, reflecting its wide-reaching impact and popularity.
Prasanth Varma is now returning to expand the universe he introduced with the first installment. The original film starred Teja Sajja in the titular role, supported by a strong ensemble cast that included Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Samuthirakani, Vinay Rai, Vennela Kishore, and Raj Deepak Shetty. Set in the fictional village of Anjanadri, the story followed a small-time thief who unexpectedly acquires extraordinary powers and rises as a superhero to protect his people.
With Jai Hanuman, the filmmaker aims to build upon that mythological foundation while scaling up the narrative and visual grandeur. The sequel is expected to delve deeper into the divine and heroic elements of the story, potentially introducing larger conflicts and expanded world-building.
As the February 22 launch date approaches, excitement continues to build. With Rishab Shetty potentially leading the charge and Prasanth Varma steering the vision, Jai Hanuman is shaping up to be one of the most awaited mythological spectacles in Indian cinema.