Producer Boney Kapoor has firmly debunked reports claiming Varun Dhawan has exited No Entry 2 (officially titled No Entry Mein Entry), the much-awaited sequel to the 2005 comedy classic, in an exclusive statement to multiple media outlets on October 13, 2025. The clarification comes amid swirling speculation triggered by scheduling conflicts with Dhawan’s commitments to Bhediya 2. Directed by Anees Bazmee and produced by Kapoor under Bayview Projects LLP, the film features Dhawan and Arjun Kapoor in the lead roles, replacing the original trio of Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, and Fardeen Khan. Kapoor’s reassurance, shared during a Mumbai press interaction, confirms both actors remain committed, with the team now finalizing the third lead and supporting cast for a potential 2026 release.
The Rumour Mill: From Diljit Dosanjh’s Exit to Varun’s Speculated Step-Out
The buzz began with Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh’s confirmed departure in July 2025 due to date clashes with his Aura Tour and other projects. Kapoor had acknowledged the amicable split, stating, “We parted in good spirits as the dates were not aligning.” Reports from Mid-Day on October 12 suggested Dhawan, 38, was next to bow out, citing overlaps with Bhediya 2’s mid-2026 shoot. A source claimed, “Varun was very excited about No Entry 2. However, the change in shooting schedules after Diljit’s exit has complicated things.” The article noted Arjun Kapoor’s continued involvement but hinted at a “back to the casting board” scenario, fueling fears the project might stall.
Kapoor’s Swift Reassurance: “We Are in Active Discussions”
Setting the record straight, Kapoor told Bollywood Hungama, “We are making No Entry Mein Entry, and Varun and Arjun are very much in the film. We are in active discussions to lock our other hero and the rest of the cast.” He echoed this, dismissing the reports as “baseless” and emphasizing the duo’s enthusiasm. “Varun’s dates are being juggled with Bhediya 2, but he’s committed,” Kapoor added to Zoom TV, confirming ongoing tweaks to align schedules. Bazmee, known for Welcome and Bhool Bhulaiyaa, is reportedly rewriting parts to accommodate the changes, ensuring the film’s chaotic spirit remains intact with 10 female leads for comedic mayhem.
A Comedy Sequel’s Resilience Amid Casting Shuffles
For Dhawan, fresh from Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’s mixed reception, No Entry 2 is a chance to reclaim his rom-com throne. Arjun Kapoor, riding Singham Again’s success, anchors the project. Fans on X breathed relief, trending #NoEntry2On with 800,000 posts: “Varun and Arjun in—masti guaranteed!” In India’s diverse 780-language landscape, the film’s pan-Indian appeal—dubs in Telugu and Tamil—bridges regions, but delays risk fan fatigue. Kapoor’s optimism, “The laughs will be bigger,” signals a comeback, proving Bollywood’s sequels thrive on adaptability.
A Sequel’s Steady Sail
Boney Kapoor’s denial of Varun Dhawan’s exit from No Entry 2 isn’t damage control—it’s determination. Amid casting waves, it asks: Can a comedy conquer chaos? With Bazmee’s blueprint, the answer is a hilarious yes, promising entry-level laughs for 2026.
-By Manoj H