Shanaya Kapoor’s Bedhadak Shelved: Director Reveals How He Broke the News

Filmmaker Shashank Khaitan has opened up about the difficult conversation he had with Shanaya Kapoor when her debut film Bedhadak was shelved. The movie, which was set to launch both Shanaya and Lakshya alongside Gurfateh Pirzada, became another project that didn’t materialize for the director.

In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, Khaitan admitted that breaking such news is never easy. “Such conversations are always tough. It’s never an easy conversation when you tell an actor ‘Aapki debut film ab nahin ban rahi hai,'” he shared. The director explained that shelving the project wasn’t a choice but a necessity, emphasizing the importance of being honest early so the actors could pursue other opportunities.

The Impact on Shanaya’s Career

The shelving deeply affected Shanaya, with her mother Maheep Kapoor revealing on Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives that “Shanaya’s film didn’t start, and she was traumatised.” However, the setback proved temporary as Shanaya eventually secured multiple projects.

Current Projects and Future Prospects

Shanaya finally made her debut with Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan and received praise for her performance. Her current lineup includes the romantic thriller Tu Yaa Main opposite Adarsh Gourav, Student of the Year 3 featuring a double role, an untitled romantic drama with Abhay Verma, and Vrusshabha opposite Mohanlal.

Meanwhile, Lakshya overcame similar setbacks, making a successful debut with Kill in 2023 and currently starring in Aryan Khan’s The Bastards of Bollywood. He will next appear alongside Ananya Panday in Chand Mera Dil.

Bedhadak marked Khaitan’s third shelved project after Rannbhoomi with Varun Dhawan and Screw Dheela starring Tiger Shroff.