Welcome to the Jungle Faces Setback Amid Cast Exits and Crew Payment Issues

The highly anticipated Akshay Kumar starrer Welcome To The Jungle, the third installment in the Welcome franchise, has encountered a major hurdle. Reports have confirmed that the film’s shooting has been put on hold.

While initial speculation suggested financial issues were to blame, insiders now reveal that the filming was paused following the recent tragic Pahalgam attack in Kashmir.

Filming Progress and the Sudden Halt

Directed by Ahmed Khan, Welcome To The Jungle began its production in December 2023. However, since August 2023, the film has seen limited movement, and a substantial portion of the movie still remains unfilmed.

Approximately 70 percent of the movie has already been shot. The remaining 30 percent was originally scheduled to be filmed in the scenic region of Pahalgam, Kashmir.

On Tuesday, reports circulated that financial difficulties, including unpaid dues to actors and crew, had disrupted the film’s production.

However, a source associated with the film clarified that the shoot was delayed due to the security concerns following the Pahalgam attack, where 26 people lost their lives.

A Star-Studded Cast and Planned Schedule

The film boasts an ensemble cast of 34 actors, including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Anil Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Sanjay Dutt, Jacqueline Fernandez, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, and others.

According to the source, “70% of the shoot of Welcome to the Jungle is already done. The remaining 30% was to be scheduled in Kashmir, but because of the unfortunate Pahalgam attack, the plan got pushed.”

An earlier report by Pinkvilla had indicated that the production faced issues of non-payment, leading some original cast members to exit the project. However, insiders claim many actors continue supporting the film out of affection for the franchise.

Clarification from Production Team

Dismissing the financial allegations, a source connected to the producer stated, “The entire schedule was locked, which included helicopters, over 250 horses with horsemen, and 1200 junior artists. But, everything is on track. All 34 actors are excited and set to commence the last marathon schedule and will begin post-rains in a different location.”

The film was initially slated for a Christmas 2025 release, but the recent pause has pushed the timeline.

Despite delays, the team remains optimistic about resuming production once monsoon conditions ease and alternate shooting locations are finalised.

Pahalgam Attack and Bollywood’s Response

Following the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, several Bollywood celebrities took to social media to express grief and solidarity.

Actors including Alia Bhatt, Hrithik Roshan, Vicky Kaushal, Sunny Deol, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Sonu Sood called for justice and shared condolences, tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi in their posts.

The production team of Welcome To The Jungle also decided to postpone the Kashmir shoot out of respect for the victims and to ensure the safety of all involved in the film.

Sources stressed that this decision was made purely as a precautionary measure and had no connection with financial concerns.

Plans to Resume Shooting

The producers are now exploring alternate locations to replicate the natural beauty of Pahalgam. Once the rains subside and permissions are obtained, the remaining shoot will begin at a new venue. The entire cast, including veterans and newcomers like Manushi Chhillar, remains committed to completing the film.

“All 34 actors are excited…and set to commence the last marathon schedule,” said a production representative, underlining the team’s unity and motivation to deliver the project despite challenges.

Storyline and Direction

Directed by Ahmed Khan and written by Farhad Samji, Welcome To The Jungle follows officers Jay Bakshi (played by Akshay Kumar) and Sandhya as they pursue criminal Raj Solanki into the wilderness.

The plot thickens when Jay discovers a personal connection with Raj. The movie promises a blend of comedy, action, and drama, featuring iconic comedic actors like Arshad Warsi, Johnny Lever, Paresh Rawal, and Rajpal Yadav.