Priyadarshan has once again captured the attention of film lovers across India. The director shared a photograph from the set of Haiwan, his latest Hindi film, and the image instantly set social media buzzing. The picture featured Mohanlal and Saif Ali Khan standing together during a break in filming. For fans of Malayalam and Hindi cinema, the moment felt both unexpected and historic.
Along with the image, Priyadarshan wrote a warm note about the unpredictable journey of life and work. He mentioned that he found himself directing the son of one of his cricket heroes while also sharing the frame with an actor who has been an important part of his cinematic legacy. The post carried the same grounded spirit that has defined the filmmaker through his many decades in the industry.
Haiwan is the official Hindi adaptation of Oppam, Priyadarshan’s acclaimed Malayalam thriller that starred Mohanlal in one of his most memorable roles. The new version places Saif Ali Khan in the lead as the visually impaired hero, while Akshay Kumar plays a significant antagonist. Mohanlal appears in a cameo that the director had referred to as a surprise until images from the set began circulating online. His presence adds emotional weight, especially for audiences who hold Oppam in high regard.
A Cross Industry Moment that Sparked Widespread Curiosity
The photograph created an immediate ripple across Malayalam and Bollywood fan circles. Mohanlal and Priyadarshan have shared a long artistic journey together, delivering some of the most iconic Malayalam films across multiple genres. Their combination has produced thrillers, comedies and dramas that continue to attract new viewers even today. Seeing Mohanlal return to a project connected to Oppam carries a sense of poetic continuity.
Saif Ali Khan, meanwhile, steps into a demanding role that offers strong emotional range and physical challenge. His portrayal of a visually impaired protagonist marks a new turn in his filmography, especially since the original character is remembered for his sensitivity and sharp instinct. The pairing of Saif with Priyadarshan introduces a creative partnership that viewers have not witnessed before. With Akshay Kumar joining the cast, Haiwan brings together a dynamic trio, each known for very different screen energies.
The production is backed by KVN Productions and Thespian Films, with Sabu Cyril leading production design. The visual world of Oppam was known for its tight interiors and atmospheric tension. Haiwan appears to follow a similar mood but with expanded scale, something the Hindi industry often embraces.
Priyadarshan’s Hindi Slate Continues to Grow
Haiwan is only one part of the director’s current creative phase in Bollywood. Priyadarshan is also preparing Bhoot Bangla and Hera Pheri 3, both of which will feature Akshay Kumar in lead roles. Their long time association has delivered several blockbusters over the years. The return to Hindi cinema marks an active period for the filmmaker, who has moved seamlessly between industries without losing his storytelling rhythm.
The photograph he shared from Haiwan therefore carries more than surface value. It reflects decades of trust, long friendships and evolving collaborations. It also serves as a symbolic moment where the worlds of Malayalam and Hindi cinema appear in a single frame. For fans who have followed Priyadarshan’s work across languages, the image offers both nostalgia and anticipation.
As Haiwan continues filming, interest around the project continues to rise. The combination of Saif Ali Khan in a layered role, Akshay Kumar in a key negative part and Mohanlal in a sentimental cameo has created the kind of momentum that most thrillers seek long before their release. With Priyadarshan guiding the narrative, Haiwan is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched Hindi films in the months ahead.
