Sunny Deol Classics to Return to Theatres Before ‘Batwara 1947’

PVR INOX will host a three-week retrospective of iconic Sunny Deol-Rajkumar Santoshi collaborations to build momentum for their upcoming Independence Day release.

MUMBAI — Audiences will soon have the opportunity to experience three of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated action dramas back on the big screen as PVR INOX announced a special retrospective of Sunny Deol and director Rajkumar Santoshi’s classic films. The theatrical run features Damini, Ghatak, and Ghayal, scheduled for consecutive weekly screenings starting July 24, 2026.

This initiative serves as a lead-up to the highly anticipated release of the duo's latest collaboration, Batwara 1947, which is set to arrive in theatres on August 14, 2026. The retrospective is designed to celebrate the enduring partnership between the actor and filmmaker, whose previous collaborations have left a significant mark on the Indian film industry.

A Legacy of Iconic Collaborations

The retrospective lineup highlights the critical and commercial success of the Deol-Santoshi partnership:

• Damini (1993): Returning to theatres on July 24, this film remains a powerful drama that earned Santoshi a Filmfare Award for Best Director and Deol a National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor.

• Ghatak (1996): Set for a July 31 release, this action drama attained cult status, noted for its intense performances and memorable dialogues.

• Ghayal (1990): The retrospective concludes on August 7 with the film that marked Santoshi’s directorial debut, which won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist at PVR INOX Ltd, stated that the retrospective honours one of the most successful filmmaker-actor partnerships in Hindi cinema. According to the company, these films have transcended generations due to their compelling storytelling, powerful performances, and thematic depth.

Anticipation for ‘Batwara 1947’

The theatrical celebration paves the way for Batwara 1947 (formerly titled Lahore 1947), an upcoming period drama produced by Aamir Khan Productions. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and featuring cinematography by Santosh Sivan, the film is based on Asghar Wajahat’s acclaimed play Jis Lahore Nai Vekhya, O Jamya E Nai.

Set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition, the film explores themes of resilience and humanity during a turbulent period in the subcontinent’s history. The cast includes Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi, Karan Deol, Ali Fazal, and Abhimanyu Singh, with music composed by A.R. Rahman. The film is scheduled for a grand release during the 2026 Independence Day weekend.

Official Sources

• PVR INOX: Announced the schedule for the three-week retrospective and provided statements regarding the celebration of the director-actor partnership.

• Aamir Khan Productions: Confirmed details regarding the upcoming release of Batwara 1947.

Why It Matters

The re-release provides a rare chance for younger audiences to view high-impact classic cinema in a theatrical environment while highlighting the historical trajectory of Sunny Deol’s career. For fans, the retrospective serves as a thematic bridge to Batwara 1947, reinforcing the anticipation for the actor's return to the screen in a period drama that mirrors the emotional intensity of his earlier acclaimed works.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Retrospective Dates: Damini (July 24), Ghatak (July 31), Ghayal (August 7).

• New Release: Batwara 1947 hits theatres on August 14, 2026.

• Production: Batwara 1947 is produced by Aamir Khan Productions and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi.

• Cast: Batwara 1947 features Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, and Shabana Azmi.

FAQ

Where can I book tickets for the re-release screenings?

PVR INOX has stated that theatre listings and booking information will be available soon via their official website and mobile application.

Why was the film's title changed to Batwara 1947?

Reportedly, the film was renamed from Lahore 1947 to give it a broader appeal while maintaining its connection to the historical events of the Partition.

Is Batwara 1947 a sequel to the re-released classics?

No, Batwara 1947 is a standalone period drama based on the play Jis Lahore Nai Vekhya, O Jamya E Nai; the re-releases are part of a promotional retrospective celebrating the director-actor duo.

Source: PVR INOX News, Hindustan Times, Times of India, Wikipedia