Shraddha Kapoor Out, Janhvi Kapoor In for “Chaalbaaz”

What Happened with Chaalbaaz Remake?

Initially announced in 2021 as Chaalbaaz in London, Shraddha Kapoor was lined up for the lead role in this remake of Sridevi’s iconic double act. Filming delays and creative issues eventually led to her exit.
Hindustan Times

According to director Pankaj Parashar, it wasn’t Shraddha’s disinterest—she remained excited—but the script never quite came together as planned. Scheduling conflicts, along with creative rethinking (including advice from David Dhawan), led to a halt.
MensXP

Fast forward to 2025: Janhvi Kapoor is now the favorite for the role—viewing Chaalbaaz as emotionally tied to her mother’s legacy. Reports say she’s excited but proceeding cautiously, seeking advice from those close to her and considering the pressure.
BollywoodShaadis

Shraddha vs. Janhvi: Career Snapshot

Shraddha Kapoor

• Notable Hits: Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain, Stree, Stree 2
• Style: Strong vocal and performance presence in romantic dramas and horror-comedy
• Recent Work: Stree 2
  Hindustan Times

Janhvi Kapoor

• Notable Films: Dhadak, Gunjan Saxena, Mili, Good Luck Jerry, Margarita With A Straw
• Recent Releases: Param Sundari (piracy issues within hours of release); upcoming films include Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and others
  BollywoodShaadis

Her trajectory has blended early knocks with a growing presence in OTT-friendly, performance-oriented roles.

Why Janhvi Over Shraddha?

Here are some possible reasons behind this casting switch:

• Emotional Legacy: Janhvi’s connection to her mother Sridevi’s iconic status gives the film’s emotional gravity a boost.
  FilmiBeat
• Creative Fresh Start: Since the script is being reworked—not just a remake—Janhvi may be seen as a fresh face aligned with a new creative direction.
  Source: Hindustan Times Hindustan Times
• Scheduling & Practicalities: Shraddha’s date conflicts likely prevented her continuation in the project.
  Source: Hindustan Times M9.news
• Public & Social Sentiment: Though some fans criticize nepotism, others believe Janhvi’s stylistic approach and emotional reservoir better fit the tone of this project.
  Times of India

Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag

• Upset Fans: Many on Reddit and social media voiced disappointment, pointing to Janhvi’s box office track record. Some demanded Sanya Malhotra instead.
  Examples: “How many movies do we have to suffer until Janhvi quits?” … “Take Sanya Malhotra, she fits the bill perfectly.” X (formerly Twitter)
• Comparisons With Sridevi: Fans echoed that no modern actress matches Sridevi’s comic timing—perhaps except a young Juhi Chawla. Expectations are sky-high.
  X (formerly Twitter)Times of India

Shraddha vs Janhvi