Anshuman Jha unveils six new films as his production banner turns 10.

Actor and filmmaker Anshuman Jha is celebrating a major milestone this year. His production banner, First Ray Films, has completed a decade in the Indian film industry. To mark the 10-year anniversary, Jha has unveiled an ambitious slate of six films set to release over the next 12 months, showcasing a mix of theatrical releases and fresh productions in the pipeline.

Upcoming releases by Anshuman Jha

Three films from the new slate are scheduled for theatrical release within the next six months. These include Jha’s directorial debut, Lord Curzon Ki Haveli, Harish Vyas’s heartfelt father-son coming-of-age story Hari Ka Om, and the sequel Lakadbaggha 2, which wrapped shooting earlier this year.

Reflecting on the journey of independent cinema, Jha said, “Independent film making is about faith and fire.”

Productions slated for 2026

The production house will also launch three fresh projects in 2026. Among them is Bajrangi, directed by Parth Saurabh, set in the heartland of Bihar. The drama aims to explore service, tradition, and duty in a changing India.

Another project, Ovi & The Monk, directed by Emerson Boston graduate Jasraj Padhaye, follows a young boy, Ovi, who sets out across the Himalayas to reunite a stranded dog, Monk, with its owner. The journey highlights themes of compassion, courage, and responsibility.

The third 2026 production is currently untitled and described as a genre feature set in Mumbai at the turn of the millennium. The story involves twins and will be helmed by an award-winning, bold Indian filmmaker.

Reflecting on a decade

Speaking about the milestone, Jha said, “I have always believed that films don’t fail, budgets fail. For us to have survived for over a decade is a testament to the audiences who are willing to embrace stories that are fresh, disruptive, and honest.”

He also expressed gratitude toward investors, adding, “Their belief proves that films can not only make a cultural impact but also be a profitable game in the long run, much like what A24 has shown globally.”

Jha further explained his vision, “My hope is to turn it into an ecosystem that survives beyond me. We aren’t creating projects, we are creating honest cinema in collaboration with talent from all around the globe which will stand the test of time. Our slate is bold, disruptive & hopefully unforgettable.”

About First Ray Films

Over the past decade, First Ray Films has produced notable works such as the social media thriller Mona_Darling, the LGBTQ+ road trip film Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele, and the animal-focused vigilante action film Lakadbaggha. The banner has established a reputation for exploring diverse and unconventional storytelling.

(With inputs from IANS)