Middle East Tensions Shift Akshay Kumar’s ‘Welcome To The Jungle’ to Mumbai
Filmmakers behind Akshay Kumar’s upcoming sequel have relocated a major song to Mumbai. The move follows rising tensions in the Middle East linked to the Iran-Israel and US conflict.
Why the Dubai plan changed
Producers had planned to film an elaborate dance sequence in Dubai. Continued geopolitical uncertainty made the team postpone those plans.
The unit reportedly waited for about a month for conditions to stabilise. When they did not, the production shifted the schedule to India.
New Mumbai locations and set design
The production will recreate the Dubai look in Mumbai. Sets are slated for Madh Island, Golden Tobacco Studio, and Film City in Goregaon.
Production designer Sailesh Mhadik will build nightclubs, casinos, and private jet interiors. The creative brief aims to capture a lavish, high-gloss visual.
Who envisioned the sequence
Director Ahmed Khan and producer Firoz A Nadiadwallah described the number as glamorous. They wanted a song that highlights the wealthy lifestyle.
A production source told Mid-Day the full ensemble will feature in the sequence. The director confirmed the plan to film the song in Mumbai.
Cast, franchise background and release date
The film assembles more than 30 actors. Key names include Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Raveena Tandon, and Disha Patani.
- Jacqueline Fernandez
- Arshad Warsi
- Paresh Rawal
- Johnny Lever
The original Welcome released in 2007 and was directed by Anees Bazmee. Its 2015 follow-up, Welcome Back, starred John Abraham and Shruti Haasan.
The new installment is scheduled to open on June 26, 2026.
Industry observers note that Middle East tensions have already affected other productions. Siddharth Anand’s King adjusted its shoot plan earlier for the same reason.
This relocation underscores how geopolitical events can influence film logistics. Filmogaz.com will follow further updates about the production and shooting schedule.
