Sai Pallavi is shaping up for a big 2026 — not just because she’s part of the VFX-heavy, star-studded Ramayana set to release on Diwali, but also because she’ll be introduced to Hindi audiences with Mere Raho, opposite Junaid Khan. The Aamir Khan Productions-backed romance, however, has seen its release plans change several times, and trade chatter suggests more shifts may be coming.
Release date in flux: April or July 2026?
Earlier reports had the makers locking in April 24, 2026, as the release date for Mere Raho, a slot many felt was ideal for a bright romantic drama. But industry sources have since suggested the film could be pushed to July 2026.
Those favouring a July window argue that the summer corridor offers “leg room” — more time for word-of-mouth to grow, better repeat value and a controlled screen density without the rush of festivals and major holiday releases.
Trade insiders say crowding in April and early May may be a key reason for the rethink. Salman Khan’s Battle Of Galwan is locked for April 17, and May 1 already sees big titles like Raja Shivaji and The Devil Wears Prada 2. Moving Mere Raho to a less-crowded window would give it breathing space at the box office.
Aamir Khan Productions staying tight-lipped
Aamir Khan Productions has kept release details under wraps. With the studio being secretive, the April 24 date may still hold — or it may not. There’s also industry buzz that the makers might attach the first-look teaser of Mere Raho to the prints of Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos (written and acted by Vir Das), which is scheduled to release on January 16. That would be a neat way to give the film an early promotional push.
What is Mere Raho? A visual romance from Japan
Mere Raho is reportedly a remake of the Korean film One Day (2011). The film was shot partly during the Snow Festival in Sapporo, Japan, promising striking winter visuals and a picturesque backdrop for the love story. Photos of Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi from the Japan schedule were leaked after the early 2024 shoot, underlining the film’s aesthetic appeal.
The romance went on floors in Mumbai in December 2023, with the Japan schedule following in early 2024. Given its international locations and romantic premise, the film is being positioned as a visually pleasing, character-driven love story rather than a loud commercial entertainer.
Timeline of earlier release plans
- Initially eyed for Valentine’s Day 2024, but that was shelved after Junaid’s other film Loveyapa chose a February release date.
- The film was later reportedly set for a December 12 release (year unspecified), before being pushed again.
- Now, the options on the table seem to be an April 24, 2026 release or a possible move to July 2026 — final word pending from the producers.
What this means for Sai Pallavi and Junaid Khan
If Mere Raho releases before Diwali 2026, it will serve as Sai Pallavi’s formal introduction to the Hindi mainstream even as she prepares for a high-profile role in Ramayana. For Junaid Khan, it continues his trajectory after Loveyapa, giving him a romantic pairing with one of South cinema’s most acclaimed actresses.
For audiences, Mere Raho promises a serene, romantic mood piece set against snowy landscapes — a contrast to the big spectacle of Ramayana. The choice of a summer release would aim to let that love story breathe without being drowned out by big-budget action films and festival releases.
Awaiting official confirmation
Until Aamir Khan Productions publicly confirms the date, the trade talk will continue. Keep an eye out for any teaser attachments with Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos in January and an official announcement that will finally pin down when Mere Raho will arrive in theatres.