On the eve of Friendship Day, acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali unveiled a project that’s as nostalgic as it is refreshing ‘Side Heroes’, a slice-of-life film celebrating the unspoken magic of lifelong friendships. The film brings together a powerhouse of talent Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana, and Varun Sharma in a story that explores reunions, memories, and rediscovering happiness after years of growing apart.
In the teaser released online, Imtiaz is seen casually brainstorming ideas with the actors when he receives a phone call from an old college friend. As the conversation unfolds in a charming Bhojpuri accent, Imtiaz learns of a long-overdue reunion—complete with the news that “Sweety bhi aa rahe hai.” His eyes light up. That moment of raw, relatable emotion becomes the spark for a film.
“Let’s make a film about friendship,” Imtiaz says. “About the kind of friends who are like ghosts—always present, even when unseen. Without them, life feels incomplete.”
Side Heroes follows the story of three childhood friends who reunite after 15 years of silence and separation. Written by Siddarth Sen and Pankaj Matta, and directed by Ssanjay Tripaathy, the film captures the bittersweet journey of looking back, laughing again, and mending what time tried to blur. It’s a story about old wounds, young dreams, and the inescapable pull of shared memories.
Set against the backdrop of a warm, comedic reunion, the film promises to deliver equal parts laughter and tears.
The film marks the first time Varun Sharma, Abhishek Banerjee, and Aparshakti Khurana will share screen space—something that fans of comedic timing and emotional range can look forward to.
With producers Mahaveer Jain, Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, and Reeyan Shah on board, the film is backed by YCA Productions and Window Seat Films, in association with Mahaveer Jain Films.
While the teaser offers plenty of warm fuzzies and nostalgic undertones, Imtiaz Ali’s signature touch ensures that Side Heroes won’t just be a walk down memory lane. It promises a deeper message about valuing the overlooked moments and people in our lives—those ‘side heroes’ who shape us without taking center stage.
The film is slated for a Friendship Day 2026 release, perfectly timed to remind us that no matter how far we drift, some friendships never really leave us.
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