Janhvi has shown a growing appetite for challenging roles
The traditional walls between regional film industries and Bollywood have effectively crumbled, giving way to a unified era of pan-Indian cinema.
Throughout 2026, some actors known for their work in Bollywood will be seen in major South Indian projects.
And these aren’t “special appearances”. They are layered roles that demand linguistic and physical commitment, which could be career-defining.
For the stars, it is a chance to work with visionary directors like Buchi Babu Sana and Geetu Mohandas, who are currently redefining the cinematic scale.
From high-octane spy thrillers to emotionally charged rural dramas, these are the Hindi film stars who will be making their mark in South Indian cinema in 2026.
Janhvi Kapoor
Janhvi Kapoor is firmly establishing herself in the Telugu film industry with Peddi, her second major outing in the region following the high-octane Devara: Part 1.
In this project, she shares the screen with Ram Charan, a collaboration that has already generated significant buzz among fans of both actors.
Peddi is a rural sports drama directed by Buchi Babu Sana, known for his ability to weave deep emotional narratives into commercial frameworks.
Janhvi has shown a growing appetite for challenging roles in films like Mili, and Peddi offers her a chance to explore a more grounded, rustic character.
With a musical score by A.R. Rahman, the project is positioned as a theatrical event in March 2026.
Raghav Juyal
Following his breakthrough performance as the cunning dacoit leader Fani in the 2023 thriller Kill, Raghav Juyal is now expanding his horizons into Telugu cinema with Paradise.
Raghav has successfully moved beyond his roots in dance and comedy to become one of the most exciting rising stars in India today.
His entry into the South Indian market suggests a conscious effort to pick scripts that offer edge-of-the-seat intensity rather than formulaic tropes.
While the plot of Paradise remains closely guarded, his casting indicates a role that will likely leverage his high-energy screen presence and physical agility.
This debut marks a significant step for Raghav as he targets a broader, more diverse demographic of filmgoers.
Mrunal Thakur
Mrunal Thakur has already carved out a unique space for herself in the South, thanks to the massive emotional resonance of Sita Ramam and Hi Nanna.
In 2026, she takes on a grittier role in Dacoit: A Love Story, an action thriller directed by Shaneil Deo.
Also starring Adivi Sesh, the film follows a prison escapee who seeks revenge against a woman whose betrayal led to his imprisonment.
Dacoit moves away from the softer roles that Mrunal has previously been in.
Her ability to deliver powerhouse performances in films like Super 30 makes her a perfect fit for a narrative that demands both vulnerability and strength.
Dacoit reinforces her reputation as an actress who can effortlessly anchor major productions across multiple languages.
Kiara Advani
Kiara Advani is set to make a high-profile entry into Kannada cinema with Toxic, a film that is already being hailed as one of 2026’s most-anticipated films.
She joins the “Rocking Star” Yash in a project directed by Geetu Mohandas, whose storytelling is known for its artistic depth and visual flair.
Kiara has delivered numerous Bollywood box-office hits, such as Kabir Singh and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2.
Her role in Kannada cinema highlights her massive pan-Indian appeal.
Toxic is reportedly centred on the international drug trade, placing Kiara at the heart of a stylised action epic.
Toxic will also mark the Kannada debuts of Huma Qureshi and Tara Sutaria, making it one to watch in 2026.
Adarsh Gourav
Adarsh Gourav, who earned international acclaim for his role in The White Tiger, is set for a meaningful debut in the Telugu film Happy Birthday Uma.
This project holds personal significance for Adarsh as he will be performing in his mother tongue, allowing him to connect with his roots on a deeper level.
Known for his meticulous preparation and range in projects like Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, he brings a level of prestige and acting calibre that is highly sought after by modern directors.
Happy Birthday Uma is said to be a horror sci-fi story that moves away from traditional commercial beats to offer something more cerebral.
His involvement ensures the film will attract attention from both regional audiences and global cinephiles.
Akshay Oberoi
Akshay Oberoi is another key addition to the cast of Toxic, marking his first major foray into the Kannada film industry.
Akshay has built a solid reputation as a versatile actor through his work in films like Fighter and various acclaimed web series.
Joining a massive production like Toxic allows him to showcase his talent to a much wider audience while working alongside some of the biggest names in the country.
His inclusion suggests a role that requires a specific level of gravitas and intensity, fitting for a Geetu Mohandas directorial.
This move signals Akshay Oberoi’s intent to be part of a large-scale, high-concept cinema that transcends regional boundaries.
Wamiqa Gabbi
Wamiqa Gabbi is rapidly becoming a favourite for directors across the country, and 2026 sees her taking on several South Indian projects.
She will star in the Telugu action-thriller G2, the much-awaited sequel to Goodachari, opposite Adivi Sesh, as well as the Tamil film DC.
Tiki Taka is another project, this time from the Malayalam industry.
Wamiqa has already proven her mettle in projects in Baby John and 83, showing versatility in her acting range.
Her 2026 slate is a clear indication of her status as a truly pan-Indian performer who can handle intense action and nuanced drama with equal ease.
These films are expected to further solidify her standing as one of the most versatile actors of her generation.
The 2026 film calendar illustrates a fascinating synergy between Mumbai’s stars and the powerhouse storytelling coming out of the South.
These actors are choosing projects that offer creative fulfilment and massive reach, regardless of the language spoken on set.
This cross-pollination of talent is enriching the cinematic experience for audiences who now prioritise strong narratives over regional labels.
As these films prepare to hit the big screen, they will likely set a new benchmark for how Indian cinema is produced and consumed.
Ultimately, this movement celebrates the diversity of the industry while proving that talent knows no borders.
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