Ishaan, Ananya Panday to star in 'Khaali Peeli'

Newcomers Ishaan and Ananya Panday are teaming up for the movie "Khaali Peeli", backed by filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar.

Ali, best known for directing blockbusters such as "Sultan", "Tiger Zinda Hai" and "Bharat", has joined hands with Zee Studios to co-produce the film.

Ishaan, who has dropped his surname Khattar, made his Bollywood debut with "Dhadak", while Ananya entered the industry with "Student of the Year 2" this year.

Directed by Maqbool Khan, "Khaali Peeli" is set in Mumbai and promises to be a "young, edgy roller-coaster ride that kick-starts one night, when a boy meets a girl," the makers said in a statement.

"'Khaali Peeli' process has been organic. Maqbool, Himanshu Kishan Mehra and I worked on the script for almost a year and when we thought it was completely baked, we took it to this enthusiastic young cast.

"I am happy that Zee Studios is producing this film with us, apart from the other massive film we are working on. We will announce our next big collaboration soon as well," Ali said.

Ace music composers Vishal-Shekhar will give music for the film, which will go on floors on September 11 this year.

"We at Zee Studios are delighted to partner with Ali as he commences his journey as a producer. This is the first of many! It's such an exciting script with tremendously promising talent attached to the film. Exciting times ahead," Shariq Patel, CEO, Zee Studios said.

Maqbool said he cannot wait to "start this ride with this young talent".

"Khaali Peeli" is scheduled to release on June 12, 2020.