Filmmaker Hansal Mehta is taking a daring step into genre storytelling with his latest project, Pralay. This post-apocalyptic zombie survival thriller, starring Ranveer Singh, is set to become a flagship production for his banner, True Story Films. Directed by Jai Mehta and developed in partnership with Singh’s Maa Kasam Films, Pralay is touted as one of the most ambitious genre ventures in Indian cinema. Mehta describes it as ‘a film unlike anything India has seen before.’
About Pralay
Sources indicate that filming for Pralay is scheduled to commence between July and August 2026. With an impressive budget of around Rs 300 crore, this will be Ranveer Singh’s most costly standalone project to date. According to insiders, Ranveer has engaged in a backend profit-sharing arrangement and is involved in all aspects of the production, from script development to visual effects planning.
The narrative reportedly follows Singh’s character as he navigates a fight for survival, using the zombie premise to delve into themes of social, emotional, and moral decay. The film is said to reimagine Mumbai in a style reminiscent of The Hunger Games.
Insiders reveal that the team plans to recreate a ravaged Mumbai, combining physical sets with artificial intelligence (AI) enhancements. Details suggest that significant portions of the city will be digitally aged to convey an abandoned aesthetic, with some filming taking place in actual Mumbai before moving to other locations.
True Story Films’ Upcoming Ventures
Launched in January 2025 by Mehta and producer Sahil Saigal, True Story Films is swiftly establishing a diverse portfolio that includes Hindi films, regional cinema, and unscripted content.
In addition to Pralay, Mehta is directing Porbandar, an action drama set in the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. This film is envisioned as a gritty narrative that starkly contrasts with Gandhi’s peaceful legacy.
Currently in the works is Dilkashi, a romantic musical that marks the Hindi debut of acclaimed filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery. Co-produced with Amazon MGM Studios, it features music by Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman and is described by Mehta as ‘a love story told in Pellissery’s unique cinematic style.’
The growing lineup also includes Kehar Singh, directed by Ajitpal Singh, and the horror film Mehfooz, which has completed development. In regional cinema, the company is supporting the Gujarati film Sardar Asardar, based on Indian statesman Vallabhbhai Patel, and the Punjabi indie Hanere de Panchi, directed by Shashank Walia.
Beyond film, True Story Films is co-producing Family Business with Abundantia Entertainment and backing Shonali Bose’s Tongues of the Tree, starring Pratik Gandhi. The company is also developing Rasooi, an AI-driven food series.
Saigal emphasizes the studio’s aim to operate as a boutique establishment, focused on backing projects that inspire creativity. Mehta adds that in today’s landscape, bold storytelling is crucial, stressing that ‘audacity wins.’