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Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Akshaye Khanna emerge as top picks for ‘Tumbbad’ sequel: Reports

The hunt for the perfect foil to Sohum Shah’s Vinayak Rao is heating up. According to fresh industry report, the makers of Tumbbad 2 have shortlisted two of Bollywood’s most versatile powerhouses—Akshaye Khanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui—to play the primary antagonist.

February 17, 2026 / 12:23 IST
Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Akshaye Khanna emerge as top picks for ‘Tumbbad’ sequel: Reports
Snapshot AI
  • Tumbbad 2 officially announced after the original's cult success
  • Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Akshaye Khanna eyed for villain role
  • Filming set to begin in 2026 with a bigger budget and scope

The dark fantasy world of Tumbbad is gearing up for a return, and speculation surrounding Tumbbad 2 has already gripped Bollywood enthusiasts. While fans are eager to revisit the eerie folklore-driven universe, the biggest question currently dominating industry chatter is: who will play the antagonist in the sequel — Nawazuddin Siddiqui or Akshaye Khanna?

The original Tumbbad, headlined by Sohum Shah, earned critical acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling, mythological undertones and haunting visual design.

Over the years, the film has achieved cult status, with audiences praising its bold narrative and unconventional horror treatment. Naturally, expectations from the sequel are sky-high.

According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the makers are looking to cast a formidable actor to bring depth and psychological intensity to the new villain. Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his layered performances and ability to portray morally complex characters, is said to be in consideration.

“The team is keen on elevating the sequel with a layered and formidable negative lead,” the report quoted a source as saying. “Akshaye Khanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui are two names currently being discussed. Their ability to portray morally complex, unpredictable characters makes them compelling choices for the world of Tumbbad.”

While there has been no official confirmation from the production team, the buzz alone has heightened excitement around the sequel.

Industry insiders suggest that the casting decision will play a crucial role in shaping the narrative arc of Tumbbad 2, particularly as the franchise is expected to expand its mythological scope and delve deeper into themes of greed and power.

As fans await an official announcement, one thing is certain: whoever steps into the antagonist’s shoes will carry the responsibility of elevating a franchise that already enjoys a passionate and devoted following.

After the cult success of the original Tumbbad, its sequel — Tumbbad 2 — has been officially announced by actor-producer Sohum Shah, confirming that the franchise will return following the film’s highly successful 2024 re-release that reignited audience interest.

Also read: Sohum Shah celebrates 7 years of Tumbbad with emotional BTS moments, confirms Tumbbad 2

The project is being developed in collaboration with veteran producer Dr. Jayantilal Gada’s Pen Studios, with filming expected to begin in 2026. The makers have hinted that the sequel will explore darker corners of the mythological horror universe established in the first film, elevating its scale with a substantial budget and expanded narrative vision.

Ragini Jaiswal
Ragini Jaiswal Entertainment journalist and content writer with 3+ years of experience covering Bollywood, lifestyle trends, and celebrity stories across leading digital platforms.
first published: Feb 17, 2026 12:23 pm

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