Ali Fazal on Raakh, Mirzapur: The Movie and Batwara 1947: ‘2026 Is a Celebration of Cinema’

Actor Ali Fazal is gearing up for one of the busiest phases of his career, with an impressive lineup of films and web projects scheduled for release in 2026. From the crime thriller Raakh and the historical drama Batwara 1947 to the highly anticipated Mirzapur: The Movie and Lust Stories, the actor says the diverse slate reflects his passion for experimenting with different characters and storytelling styles.

Speaking about what many are calling "his year," Fazal says he prefers to view 2026 as a celebration of cinema rather than a personal milestone.

Key Highlights

• Ali Fazal has multiple major releases lined up in 2026.
• His upcoming projects include Raakh, Batwara 1947, Mirzapur: The Movie and Lust Stories.
• The actor says experimentation remains central to his acting journey.
• Fazal hopes audiences return to theatres and celebrate diverse cinema.
• Mirzapur: The Movie is scheduled to release in theatres on September 4.

'2026 Is Exciting, But I Can't Claim the Whole Year'

Reflecting on his packed release calendar, Ali Fazal admitted he hadn't expected so many of his projects to arrive within the same period.

The actor said seeing several contrasting roles release in one year puts his journey into perspective and makes 2026 particularly exciting. However, he stopped short of calling it "his year," saying that no single actor can claim an entire calendar year.

According to Fazal, the timing offers audiences the opportunity to experience multiple genres through one actor's work.

A Celebration of Cinema

For Fazal, the second half of 2026 is bigger than individual success.

He believes the industry has an exciting lineup of films that could encourage audiences to return to theatres and rediscover the collective experience of cinema.

The actor expressed optimism about the variety of stories reaching viewers and said he is equally excited to watch the work of his fellow filmmakers and actors.

Why Ali Fazal Keeps Choosing Different Roles

Ali Fazal says he deliberately looks for projects that challenge him creatively.

Whether portraying Sub-Inspector Jayprakash Jatav in Raakh or reprising the iconic role of Guddu Bhaiya in Mirzapur: The Movie, he sees every project as an opportunity to step into a completely different world.

According to the actor, working on a single character allows him to disconnect from everyday distractions and immerse himself fully in the story.

He believes that constant experimentation keeps acting fresh and prevents creative stagnation.

Taking Risks in a Changing Entertainment Industry

While taking on multiple diverse projects can increase visibility, Fazal acknowledges that it also carries the risk of audience overexposure.

However, he believes actors should trust audiences and continue experimenting rather than avoid opportunities out of fear.

With viewing habits evolving rapidly across theatres and streaming platforms, Fazal says creative professionals must also be willing to adapt and take risks, even if every experiment doesn't succeed.

Upcoming Projects in 2026

Raakh

Currently streaming on Prime Video, Raakh is inspired by the infamous Ranga-Billa case. The story follows the disappearance of two teenagers and the nationwide investigation led by a determined police officer as he uncovers a disturbing criminal network.

Batwara 1947

Ali Fazal will also appear in the historical drama Batwara 1947 alongside Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, and Shabana Azmi, portraying events surrounding one of the most significant chapters in Indian history.

Mirzapur: The Movie

One of the year's biggest releases, Mirzapur: The Movie, will see Fazal reprise his fan-favourite character Guddu Bhaiya. The film promises to expand the popular crime franchise from the digital platform to the big screen.

The movie is scheduled to release in theatres on September 4.

Lust Stories

Alongside action and drama, Fazal will also be seen exploring more intimate storytelling through Lust Stories, further highlighting the versatility of his upcoming slate.

Why This Matters

Ali Fazal's 2026 lineup reflects a growing trend in Indian entertainment, where actors increasingly move seamlessly between theatrical releases and streaming platforms while embracing diverse genres.

His willingness to experiment with contrasting roles also signals a broader shift toward content-driven cinema, where storytelling often takes precedence over conventional image-building.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which projects will Ali Fazal appear in during 2026?

Ali Fazal's upcoming releases include Raakh, Batwara 1947, Mirzapur: The Movie, and Lust Stories.

2. What did Ali Fazal say about 2026 being "his year"?

The actor described 2026 as an exciting year but said he prefers to see it as a celebration of cinema rather than claim the entire year as his own.

3. What is Raakh about?

Raakh is inspired by the Ranga-Billa case and follows the investigation into the disappearance of two teenagers.

4. When is Mirzapur: The Movie releasing?

Mirzapur: The Movie is scheduled to hit theatres on September 4, 2026.

5. Why does Ali Fazal choose diverse roles?

According to the actor, experimenting with different characters helps him grow creatively, stay engaged with storytelling, and avoid repetition.