Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar recently opened up about the intense fan reaction she faced after a tourism advertisement featuring the original cast of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara was mistaken for a sequel trailer. The ad, which brought together Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, and Abhay Deol in 2025, created immediate excitement among fans who believed they were finally getting a glimpse of ZNMD 2. But when they realised it was just a commercial, the disappointment turned into anger directed at the director.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India at the Monsoon Film Festival, Zoya recalled how the confusion played out. Fans saw the trio together and celebrated, but the mood quickly changed once they understood the truth.
“People thought it was a trailer. First, they were like, ‘YEAH!’ But then I got abused in my DMs saying, ‘This was not funny.’”
The advertisement was for Yas Island, a tourist destination in Abu Dhabi. It drew heavily from the world of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, showing the three actors in a setting that reminded viewers of their characters Arjun, Kabir, and Imran from the 2011 film. The campaign worked a little too well — it made people believe a sequel was already in the works.
Zoya Akhtar Confirms Work on ZNMD 2
While the ad confusion caused backlash, Zoya also gave fans something to look forward to. She confirmed that she and her long-time collaborator Reema Kagti are actively working on a sequel to Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.
“We are on it. We don’t know what will happen and what won’t… if we will get to a place where it feels correct, in catching up with these characters today. But it will be nice.”
Zoya made it clear that the project is still in its early stages. She does not want to rush into making a sequel unless the story feels right for the characters at this point in their lives. The original film, released in 2011, followed three childhood friends on a road trip across Spain. It became a cult classic and remains one of the most loved Bollywood films of its time.
The director also shared that Abhay Deol, who played Kabir in the original, has already worked out an entire story for the second part. This shows that the cast is just as invested in revisiting the characters as the fans are.
The Ad That Sparked the Confusion
The advertisement that caused all the trouble featured Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, and Abhay Deol together on screen for the first time in years. For fans who had been waiting over a decade for any news about a sequel, seeing the trio reunited was enough to spark immediate speculation.
Many viewers assumed the footage was a teaser or trailer for Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara 2. The excitement was huge — until people realised it was just a promotional video for a tourist destination. That is when the disappointment set in, and Zoya became the target of angry messages.
The director shared that the abuse came through her direct messages on social media. Fans expressed their frustration, with some saying the ad was not funny and that they felt misled.
Farhan Akhtar’s Love for the Original
Farhan Akhtar, who produced the original film and played Imran in it, has also spoken about his desire to see a sequel happen. In 2025, he said that working on Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara was one of the best experiences of his career.
“People have been asking me questions about ZNMD 2 since 2011. This question has never left me. ZNMD was a fun ride, working with Abhay, Hrithik, Katrina and Kalki, shooting in Spain. The weather was great, the locations were outstanding. The crew was fun. If I had to repeat any film experience, in a heartbeat I would choose Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. I hope Zoya does ZNMD 2.”
His comments only added to the anticipation surrounding a potential second instalment. Fans have been eager to see the three friends return to the screen, and Farhan’s words made it clear that he shares that desire.
Zoya on Criticism of Her Films
During the same conversation, Zoya also addressed the criticism that her films often focus on wealthy characters and their personal struggles. Movies like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Dil Dhadakne Do have been called out for showing the “angst of posh people”.
She said the criticism still comes up, but it no longer bothers her.
“It still comes up, but it does not bother me now. These are stories and, as a filmmaker, I got to tell stories of all kinds of people. I totally respect it if it’s something that does not resonate with you. Or these are not conflicts and complexities you are interested in. But I am interested, and so I’ll make them… someone will watch them.”
Zoya pointed out that the same people who criticise her for making films about the rich are often the ones asking her to make Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara again. She finds it interesting that while some complain about her choice of subjects, they still want to see more of the characters from her most famous film.
About Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara was directed by Zoya Akhtar and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under Excel Entertainment. The film starred Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif, and Kalki Koechlin in key roles.
The story follows three childhood friends — Arjun, Kabir, and Imran — who go on a three-week road trip across Spain as part of Kabir’s bachelor party. The film was shot across Spain, India, and the United Kingdom. Made on a budget of Rs 45 crore, it earned around Rs 153 crore worldwide. Over the years, it has gained cult-classic status and remains a favourite among audiences.
The film also won multiple awards, including National Awards for Best Choreography and Best Audiography.
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What the Ad Confusion Says About Fan Expectations
The strong reaction to the advertisement shows just how much fans want a sequel to Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. Even after 15 years, the film continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers. The mere sight of the three actors together was enough to make people believe a sequel was on the way.
Zoya’s experience with the abusive DMs also highlights the pressure that filmmakers face from fans. While the excitement for a sequel is understandable, the director had to deal with the downside of that enthusiasm when expectations were not met.
Despite the backlash, Zoya took the situation in stride. She laughed while recalling the incident, showing that she understands where the fans are coming from. The love for Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is real, and the demand for a sequel is something she acknowledges.
For now, fans will have to wait a little longer. Zoya has made it clear that the sequel will only happen if the story is right. But with the director and the cast both interested in making it happen, there is hope that Arjun, Kabir, and Imran will return to the screen someday.
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