World Folklore Day: How Arunabh Kumar and Ektaa Kapoor’s Shared Love for Indian Temples Inspired ‘The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest’

To mark World Folklore Day, creative mastermind Arunabh Kumar, founder of The Viral Fever (TVF), shared the origin story behind the upcoming theatrical spectacle The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest. Co-produced by Balaji Motion Pictures, TVF Motion Pictures, and 11.11 Production, the ambitious film blends action, fantasy, comedy, and folklore mystery centered around real temple legends from across India.

Reflecting on the project's inception, Kumar detailed how his long-standing bond with producer Ektaa Kapoor was built on a mutual reverence for Indian cultural heritage, spiritual spaces, and local folklore. The idea for the feature film crystallized after a visit to the Vandevi Temple in Bihta, leading Kapoor to back a large-scale cinematic adaptation focused on rooted Indian mythology.

The creative team behind The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest brings together established industry talents. The story is penned by Arunabh Kumar, with direction by Deepak Kumar Mishra (celebrated for his work on Panchayat) and cinematography led by Visual Director Manu Anand. The ensemble cast features Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia in the lead, alongside Sunil Grover, Maniesh Paul, Anup Soni, and Shweta Tiwari.

The project represents a strategic collaboration between Balaji Telefilms and TVF, aiming to translate regional oral traditions and temple folklore onto a grand visual canvas. Produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R. Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar, and Niraj Kothari, the film seeks to deliver a uniquely Indian cinematic experience for global audiences.

As anticipation builds following the release of promotional material on social media, the makers have locked in their theatrical release strategy. The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest is scheduled to hit cinemas nationwide on September 25, 2026.