Shraddha Kapoor emerges as frontrunner for female lead in Allu Arjun–Lokesh Kanagaraj film AA23

Industry reports dated January 29, 2026, suggest that Shraddha Kapoor is currently the leading contender to play the female lead in AA23, the highly anticipated project directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and headlined by Allu Arjun.

While the development has generated significant buzz across film circles, the makers, Mythri Movie Makers, have not yet issued an official confirmation regarding the casting.

Casting talks still underway

According to multiple entertainment outlets, Shraddha Kapoor is believed to be in advanced discussions for the role. Sources indicate that the decision, if finalized, would be a strategic pan-India move, particularly aimed at strengthening the film’s reach in Hindi-speaking markets.

The reported casting buzz follows Kapoor’s strong box office momentum after the success of Stree 2, which further cemented her position as a bankable pan-Indian star.

A fresh on-screen pairing

If confirmed, AA23 would mark the first on-screen collaboration between Shraddha Kapoor and Allu Arjun, adding to the project’s novelty factor. The prospect of the pairing has already sparked excitement among fans across Telugu and Hindi cinema audiences.

What’s confirmed about AA23 so far

While the female lead remains unannounced, several key details about the film are officially locked:

• Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj (LK07)

• Lead actor: Allu Arjun

• Music composer: Anirudh Ravichander

• Production house: Mythri Movie Makers

The film’s pre-production is currently in full swing, with principal photography expected to commence in June or July 2026.

The teaser hints at scale and tone

On January 14, 2026, the makers unveiled a brief teaser confirming the project, featuring Allu Arjun’s silhouette alongside a horse, a visual that hinted at a grand, intense narrative while keeping plot details tightly under wraps.

With Lokesh Kanagaraj’s reputation for stylized action dramas and Allu Arjun’s mass appeal, AA23 is already shaping up to be one of the most closely watched pan-India films in development. An official casting announcement is now keenly awaited.