After a decade-long “hibernation,” Bollywood’s favorite chocolate boy is finally back.Imran Khan, who won hearts with his debut in Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na (2008), has officially returned to the silver screen. However, this isn’t your typical, high-pressure Bollywood relaunch. On January 16, 2026, Imran made a surprise appearance in the quirky spy comedy Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, and his reasons for returning are as candid and refreshing as the actor himself.
The return of star
Imran Khan walked away from the limelight after his 2015 film Katti Batti. For years, fans wondered if he would ever return. While other actors chase box-office rankings and stardom, Imran spent his time away reflecting on what truly matters.
In a recent, widely shared interview with PTI, Imran admitted that he is no longer seeking to be a “top three” star. He explained that his comeback isn’t about reclaiming glory but about finding joy.
Fomo of Happy Patel
The story of his return sounds more like a chat between friends than a business deal. Imran’s close friend and Delhi Belly co-star, Vir Das, was developing a “zany, spoofy spy comedy” called Happy Patel.
As Imran heard snippets of the project which involved his uncle Aamir Khan as a producer and his friend Mithila Palkar as a lead he felt a genuine sense of missing out on the fun. He didn’t wait for a formal offer; he simply texted Vir Das: “Hey, been hearing good stuff about the film you’re making! Any place I could cameo, you think?”
Vir Das responded with immediate enthusiasm, creating a special role just for him. In the film, Imran plays Milind Morea, an international supermodel. His entrance even features a nostalgic “remix” of his hit song Pappu Can’t Dance Saala, a tribute that has sent fans into a frenzy of delight.
What’s next?
While Happy Patel marks his return to the big screen, it is only the beginning of “Imran 2.0.” The actor has confirmed several upcoming projects that align with his new, grounded philosophy:
- Adhure Hum Adhure Tum: A romantic dramedy set to premiere on Netflix in early 2026. This project reunites him with his Break Ke Baad director, Danish Aslam, and co-stars Bhumi Pednekar.
- The “15 Years Later” Vibe: Imran describes his new work as a “natural progression.” Just as he has grown, married, and experienced life’s ups and downs, his characters will reflect the maturity of someone who has lived through a decade of change.
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