Kartik Aaryan’s ‘Naagzilla’ ropes in South actress Preity Mukhundhan as female lead - Reports

Kartik Aaryan is gearing up for a unique fantasy outing with ‘Naagzilla’, where he will reportedly portray an ichchhadhari naag. The film, backed by Dharma Productions, has generated considerable buzz since its announcement, particularly around the identity of the female lead. Earlier reports suggested that actors Sreeleela and Pratibha Ranta were being considered for the role. However, the makers have now reportedly finalised Malayalam actress Preity Mukhundhan as the leading lady opposite Kartik.According to Variety India, Preity Mukhundhan has been cast in the upcoming fantasy entertainer. The actress has already appeared in films across multiple South Indian industries and has been steadily expanding her presence. She made her acting debut in 2024 with the Telugu horror-comedy ‘Om Bheem Bush’, directed by Sree Harsha Konuganti. The film marked the beginning of her screen journey and helped introduce her to audiences in the Telugu film industry.Preity was also seen in the Telugu period drama ‘Kannappa’, a project that attracted attention for its notable guest appearances by actors Mohanlal, Prabhas and Akshay Kumar. She later entered Malayalam cinema with ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ in 2025, where she starred opposite Hridhu Haroon. Apart from films, the actress has also featured in popular music videos by artists Sai Abhyankkar and Teejay Arunasalam.‘Naagzilla’ was initially planned for a theatrical release on August 14 to coincide with the Independence Day weekend. However, reports suggest the release timeline could shift. The film reportedly involves heavy visual effects and extensive post-production work, which may require additional time before it is ready for theatres. On the professional front, Kartik Aaryan has several projects lined up. He is set to reunite with director Kabir Khan for a new film in which he will portray a kickboxing coach. The collaboration follows their earlier project ‘Chandu Champion’.Following this, the actor is expected to begin work on ‘Captain India’, directed by Shimit Amin. In the film, Kartik will play a captain leading one of India’s most successful rescue missions. The story is said to be inspired by Operation Rahat, which involved evacuating Indian citizens from a war-affected region.Kartik’s upcoming slate also includes a musical romance directed by Anurag Basu opposite Sreeleela. The film, earlier associated with the ‘Aashiqui’ franchise, is now titled ‘Tu Meri Zindagi Hai’ and is expected to release later this year. Additionally, the actor is reportedly in discussions with filmmaker Nikhil Nagesh Bhat for a mythological drama.