Film Chandni Bar 2 announced; talks ongoing with Tabu for return, new lead actress yet to be finalised by makers

The highly anticipated sequel to the National Award-winning Chandni Bar is officially underway, but the spotlight is firmly on one question — will Tabu return?

The original 2001 film, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, earned Tabu a National Award for her raw and powerful portrayal of Mumtaz Sawant. Her performance remains the emotional cornerstone of the film, making her involvement in Chandni Bar 2 critical in the eyes of both audiences and the makers.

The sequel, set 25 years after the events of the original, will be a reimagined story for a new generation. However, the makers have yet to confirm whether Tabu will reprise her iconic role.

A source close to the production revealed that conversations with the actress are underway. “The producers are keenly interested in having her reprise her iconic role, as her presence is considered essential to the sequel’s credibility and emotional core. The conversation is currently in process; the official casting confirmation is still awaited,” the source said.

Chandni Bar 2 will be produced by Sandeep Singh under his banner Legend Studios and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ajay Bahl.

While the sequel is expected to introduce a new protagonist, several young actresses are reportedly being considered for the lead role. Industry names in the running include Ananya Panday, Sharvari Wagh, and Triptii Dimri. The casting is expected to be finalized soon, as the story continues to explore life inside Mumbai’s dance bars from a new generational lens.