Jackie Shroff joins Sanjay Dutt in Khalnayak Returns, confirms role

Jackie Shroff has confirmed that he will return for Khalnayak Returns, reuniting with Sanjay Dutt in the sequel to the 1993 cult hit. The veteran actor said he has already spoken to Subhash Ghai, the producer and Dutt about the project.

In Short

• Jackie Shroff confirmed his role in Khalnayak Returns sequel
• The actor said he is looking forward to reuniting with Sanjay Dutt
• Jackie said he had spoken to Subhash Ghai and the makers

Veteran actor Jackie Shroff confirmed that he will be part of Khalnayak Returns, the sequel to Subhash Ghai’s 1993 film Khal Nayak. Speaking in an exclusive conversation with India Today, Jackie said he has already spoken to the makers and made it clear that he will return to the franchise.

Jackie also spoke about reuniting with Sanjay Dutt in the new film. He said he was looking forward to the project and suggested that his character would remain part of the story.

Jackie on Sanjay Dutt and the sequel

“Excellent! I’m waiting for it,” he said about Khalnayak Returns. Confirming his involvement, Jackie added, “100%. Commissioner has to be there, right? Commissioner toh hoga na (There must be a Commissioner, right?).”

During the conversation, Jackie spoke warmly about Sanjay Dutt and said he was happy to work with friends again. “It’s nice to be with friends. Mera jaan hain Sanju Baba (he is my life),” Jackie said while speaking about the actor.

The actor also said he had already discussed the project with those involved. “Yes, I’ve spoken to Subhash ji, the producer, and Sanju Baba,” he shared.

How the sequel came together

The sequel has drawn attention since Sanjay Dutt announced it earlier this year. Dutt has said the film would not be possible without Subhash Ghai. “The journey of Khalnayak has been long, and without Subhash ji it wouldn’t have been possible. He is a legend and a man of entertainment. He will be part of this Khalnayak,” he said.

Dutt’s Three Dimension Motion Pictures and producer Aksha Kamboj’s Aspect Entertainment have secured the rights for the sequel from Ghai and Mukta Arts. Dutt also said the idea had stayed with him since his jail term in the 1993 Mumbai blast case.

“In jail, I asked everyone around me -- who would be interested in watching it. And the 4,000 inmates said they all would. I asked all of them to write one page about it (new Khalnayak story), and it took me a while to read all 4,000 pages,” the actor said. He added, “When I came out on parole, I asked Subhash sir to go through it. After that, he said it should be made.”

Legacy of the original film

The original Khal Nayak, directed by Ghai, starred Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff and Madhuri Dixit. Dutt played Ballu, Jackie played Officer Ram and Madhuri starred as undercover officer Ganga. The film became one of the biggest hits of its time and is still remembered for Dutt’s portrayal of Ballu Balram. While Khalnayak Returns has now taken shape, more details about its story and director are yet to be announced.

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