The party seems to be getting bigger — and bolder — with Cocktail 2. Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna have officially kicked off filming for the much-awaited sequel, and if early buzz is anything to go by, the makers are eyeing a late 2026 theatrical release.
As cameras roll across stunning Indian and international locations, a fresh update has now given fans a rough idea of when they can expect the film to hit the big screen.
Cocktail 2 targets Q3 2026 release
According to industry chatter, Cocktail 2 is being lined up for a third-quarter 2026 release, which places it somewhere between August and October next year. While no official date has been locked yet, the timeline suggests the makers are positioning the film as a major second-half release.
Filming is currently underway at full pace, with the team wrapping up schedules across Europe before moving to other locations.
Homi Adajania returns, BTS moments fuel excitement
Director Homi Adajania, who helmed the original Cocktail in 2012, is back at the director’s chair for the sequel. He has been actively sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses from the sets, offering fans small but tantalising peeks into the film’s mood and scale.
The BTS images featuring Shahid, Kriti, and Rashmika quickly went viral, further amplifying anticipation around the trio’s on-screen chemistry.
What we know about Cocktail 2 so far
Produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, Cocktail 2 has its script penned by Luv Ranjan. While story details are being kept tightly under wraps, the film is expected to carry forward the emotional complexity and modern relationship dynamics that made the original such a talking point.
The first Cocktail, starring Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Diana Penty, explored friendship, love, and heartbreak in an urban setting — and became a cult favourite over time. The sequel is expected to bring a new-age romantic dynamic, shaped by its fresh cast.
Busy slate for the lead stars
All three leads are riding packed schedules. Shahid Kapoor was last seen in Deva and has Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’ Romeo lined up next. Kriti Sanon recently appeared opposite Dhanush in Tere Ishk Mein, while Rashmika Mandanna has been enjoying the success of Thamma after her Telugu release The Girlfriend.
Final words
With filming progressing smoothly, a proven director at the helm, and a popular trio leading the cast, Cocktail 2 is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most anticipated romantic dramas. If everything stays on track, audiences can expect the music, heartbreak, and messy relationships to return — just in a brand-new flavour — by late next year.
