MUMBAI: 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Indian cinema, with a fresh wave of storytellers stepping behind the camera for the very first time. Among them are Shazia Iqbal, Sejal Shah, and Karan Singh Tyagi and others, these names may already be familiar from their work in writing, cinematography, or production, now ready to take the director’s chair. Each bringing their own unique lens to the world of filmmaking. As audiences grow more open to diverse stories and newer perspectives, these debut directors are set to make their mark with bold, personal, and refreshingly original narratives.
Shazia Iqbal
Shazia Iqbal, a name long respected in the Indian film and advertising industry for her stellar work as a production designer, is now stepping into the director’s chair with Dhadak 2. After spending over thirteen years crafting the visual language of stories behind the scenes, Shazia is all set to bring her own narrative to life on the big screen. Starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Tripti Dimri, Dhadak 2 marks her highly anticipated directorial debut — a project that promises to pair her strong visual sensibility with a fresh, emotionally grounded take on young love. With her deep understanding of storytelling through design and detail, Shazia’s transition to directing feels both natural and exciting.
Sejal Shah
Sejal Shah makes her directorial debut with Costao, a powerful biopic starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead. After building an impressive career as a producer with some of the best projects like Serious Me, Decoupled, Asur 2, Delhi Crime Season 2 and more shaping some of the most acclaimed shows in recent years and being a highly acclaimed journalist, Sejal now turns storyteller in a new way. Her journey behind the scenes has always been driven by a deep passion for real, meaningful narratives, and with Costao, she brings that same honesty and insight to the director’s chair. It’s a natural next step for someone who has long been drawn to stories that matter.
Karan Singh Tyagi
Karan Singh Tyagi steps into the spotlight with Kesari, his directorial debut a gripping biopic based on the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Starring Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday, the film promises to bring one of the darkest and most important chapters of India’s history to life with honesty and depth. Karan, who has quietly built a strong reputation in the industry through years of behind-the-scenes work, now takes the leap into direction with a story that holds deep emotional and historical weight. Kesari marks not just his debut, but also his commitment to telling stories that leave a lasting impact.
Karan Sharma
Karan Sharma makes a warm and promising entry into direction with Bhool Chuk Maaf, a light-hearted comedy starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi. Known for his easygoing charm behind the scenes and sharp sense of humour, Karan brings both heart and laughter to his first film. Bhool Chuk Maaf is a story about love,time travel and a wedding. With this debut, Karan shows that storytelling doesn’t always have to be loud to leave a lasting impression.
Vijay Kumar Arora
Vijay Kumar Arora makes his much-awaited Hindi directorial debut with Son of Sardaar 2, starring Ajay Devgn. After winning hearts with his work in Punjabi cinema, Vijay now brings his strong storytelling and vibrant visual style to a larger national audience. Known for his grounded approach and ability to blend humour with emotion, he steps into Bollywood with a sequel that promises big laughs, high energy, and plenty of heart. With Son of Sardaar 2, Vijay takes a confident step forward, bringing his own flavour to a much-loved franchise.
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