Advait Chandan Exits Dostana 2 Over Creative Differences With Dharma Productions

Director Advait Chandan has stepped away from directing Dharma Productions' upcoming film 'Dostana 2' due to creative differences with the producers. The decision, which was reported on June 6, 2026, comes after Chandan spent nearly seven months developing the project.

According to reports, the parting was amicable, with no bad blood between the director and the production house. The split arose because Chandan's creative vision for the film did not align with the direction the producers had in mind. Despite the disagreement, both sides parted on good terms.

This exit marks the latest setback for 'Dostana 2', which has faced a long and complicated development process. Dharma Productions originally announced the sequel to the 2008 blockbuster 'Dostana' in 2019. That initial version was set to star Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Lakshya, with Collin D'Cunha making his feature directorial debut, before the project was eventually shelved.

Recently, Dharma Productions revived the project with a reimagined storyline. The new version features Vikrant Massey and Lakshya in the leading roles, while former beauty pageant winner Sini Shetty was reportedly being considered for the female lead.

Chandan was brought on board to direct this new iteration, putting in nearly a year of work. His casting as director was widely appreciated within the industry, as he is known for striking a fine balance between mass entertainment and emotional storytelling. Chandan previously directed the Aamir Khan starrer 'Laal Singh Chaddha' and 'Loveyapa'.

With his departure, the film is once again left without a director, requiring Dharma Productions to find a replacement to helm the project.