Anil Kapoor acquires Nayak rights, fueling buzz around a potential sequel

nayak

• Anil Kapoor acquires Nayak's rights, fueling speculation of a possible sequel
• Nayak sequel remains unconfirmed but excitement grows among fans

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More than two decades after its release, Nayak is no longer just a standout title from Anil Kapoor’s illustrious filmography—it may well be part of his cinematic future. The 2001 political drama, which went on to achieve cult status over the years, is once again in the spotlight amid reports that Anil Kapoor has acquired the film’s copyrights, a move that could potentially pave the way for a long-awaited sequel.

According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the rights to Nayak were previously held by producer Deepak Mukut, best known for Sanam Teri Kasam. A source close to the development revealed that Anil Kapoor has reportedly purchased the rights from Mukut, choosing to retain ownership of a film that remains deeply personal to him. The source added that Kapoor has long been aware of the enduring love the film continues to receive and believes that Nayak still holds immense narrative potential.

“He plans to hold the rights as it’s a film close to his heart. He also aspires to make a sequel. Anil Kapoor is fully aware of the fan following Nayak has built over the years and feels the subject has tremendous scope for a second part,” the source was quoted as saying.

Directed by S. Shankar, Nayak featured an ensemble cast that included Rani Mukerji, the late Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal, Saurabh Shukla, Johny Lever, Shivaji Satam and Neena Kulkarni. Pooja Batra appeared in a cameo, while Sushmita Sen made a special appearance in a popular song. The film, which explored the idea of an ordinary man becoming the Chief Minister for a day, struck a chord with audiences and gained cult status through television reruns and social media discourse.

While there has been no official announcement regarding Nayak 2, news of the reported rights acquisition has reignited excitement among fans. In today’s climate—where political narratives dominate public conversation and cinema increasingly reflects societal complexities—a sequel to Nayak could feel more relevant and impactful than ever before.

Also read: Anil Kapoor turns 69: Daughter Sonam Kapoor pens a sweet birthday note for dad, friend Anupam Kher also has a special message for ‘Kapoor saab’

For now, the sequel remains an aspiration rather than a confirmed project. But if Nayak does return to the big screen, it is likely to be driven not just by nostalgia, but by urgency, relevance and a political reality that feels far more charged today than it did in 2001.