2025 proved to be a crucial turning point for Bollywood. This year, the box office clearly indicated that audiences are no longer solely reliant on franchises and sequels. Original films like Chhaava, Saiyaara, and Mahavatar Narsimha proved that if the story is compelling, something new can also succeed.
Now, as 2025 is in its final stages, Bollywood seems fully prepared for 2026 with new stories, grander scales, and most importantly, fresh on-screen pairings. So let’s take a look at the pairings that will be seen together on the big screen for the first time in 2026.
1. Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi – Ramayana: Part 1
Ramayana: Part 1 is created by Nitesh Tiwari’s mega pan-India film, in which Ranbir will be seen as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita. The film is scheduled for release on Diwali 2026 and is considered one of the most ambitious projects in Indian cinema.
2. Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri – O’ Romeo
When you enter Vishal Bhardwaj’s world, romance is always a little dark and intense. Releasing on 14th February, Valentine’s Day 2026, O’ Romeo will present a new kind of love story with Shahid and Tripti.
3. Mrunal Thakur and Siddhant Chaturvedi – Do Deewane Seher Mein
Directed by Ravi Udyawar, this romantic drama film tells the story of urban relationships and the ups and downs of love. Mrunal’s sensitivity and Siddhant’s raw energy make this pairing special. The film will be released in February 2026.
4. Yash and Kiara Advani – Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups
This is Yash’s grand comeback after KGF. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, this period gangster drama film is being described as dark, raw, and intense. Their chemistry is already generating a lot of buzz.
5. Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor – Peddi
A sports-action drama, featuring South’s global star Ram Charan and Bollywood’s Janhvi Kapoor together for the first time. The film’s first song has already become a hit even before its release, confirming the chemistry between this pair.
6. Varun Dhawan and Pooja Hegde – Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai
This David Dhawan film is going to be a full-on entertainer with its songs, comedy, and colourful romance. Varun and Pooja’s fresh pairing will hit theatres in June 2026.
7. Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela – Tu Meri Zindagi Hai
Directed by Anurag Basu, this musical-romantic film was previously discussed under the title Aashiqui 3. Kartik’s intense romantic image and Sreeleela’s fresh energy are already admired by the audience.
8. Siddhant Chaturvedi and Wamiqa Gabbi – Dil Ka Darwaaza Khol Na Darling
Dil Ka Darwaaza Khol Na Darling has been directed by Vikas Bahl. Siddhant and Wamiqa’s pairing seems promising. Both actors are praised for their acting and chemistry.
9. Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan – Pati Patni Aur Woh 2
Both the actors are masters of quirky characters; Ayushmann and Sara’s energy could give this sequel a fresh touch. This film will offer a lighthearted take on relationships.
10. Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia – Vvan – Force of the Forrest
Vvan – Force of the Forrest is Directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Kumar Mishra. This pairing can be surprisingly interesting for the audience, as both actors can bring sophistication and depth to the characteristics.
11. Lakshya Lalwani and Ananya Panday – Chand Mera Dil
A film that is made keeping the Gen-Z audience in mind, this will be a story of young love, dreams, and emotions. This new-age pair could create quite a buzz in 2026.
2026 is going to be a year of new stories and new pairings. Of all these fresh on-screen pairings, which one is your favourite and why?