India’s Junglee Pictures and Pen Studios have partnered on a new slate of films, beginning with “Daayra,” a crime thriller starring Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran and directed by Meghna Gulzar.
The tie-up pairs Junglee’s development-focused, story-driven approach with Pen Studios’ production and theatrical distribution strength in the Indian market. “Daayra” is inspired by true events and centers on a crime and its aftermath, weighing guilt, punishment and moral accountability, and how far the boundaries of law and public expectations of justice diverge.
Junglee Pictures has backed titles including “Haq,” “Raazi,” “Badhaai Do,” “Badhaai Ho” and “Talvar.” Pen Studios has supported films such as “Gangubai Kathiawadi” and “RRR,” and has “Tumbbad 2” upcoming, alongside a track record of taking Indian films to audiences overseas.
Vineet Jain, managing director of the Times Group, which owns Junglee Pictures, said: “What better way to begin this association with Pen Studios than with the gripping crime drama ‘Daayra,’ helmed by Meghna Gulzar? Collaborating with Meghna is always creatively rewarding. Our work together on ‘Raazi’ and ‘Talvar’ reflects our shared commitment to strong, story-first cinema. Joining forces with Jayantibhai and Pen Studios, whose nuanced understanding of the Indian audience is unparalleled, adds a dynamic layer to our broader vision. We’re truly looking forward to exploring the possibilities this collaboration unlocks for the future of Indian storytelling.”
