Main Vaapas Aaunga Returns the favour as overseas fans rush in

MUMBAI: Weeks before its theatrical release, Imtiaz Ali’s much-anticipated romantic drama is making waves far beyond Indian shores, with audiences in North America driving an unusual pre-release milestone.

In a rare move for a Hindi film, advance bookings across the US and Canada will open on 5 June a full week before the film arrives in cinemas on 12 June. The decision comes in response to overwhelming demand from overseas audiences, underlining the film’s growing global appeal.

The buzz surrounding Main Vaapas Aaunga has been steadily building ever since its trailer and soundtrack struck an emotional chord with viewers. Blending themes of love, longing and belonging, the film has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about Hindi releases of the year. Adding to the momentum, it currently sits at the top of IMDb’s list of Most Anticipated Movies.

Reacting to the enthusiastic international response, director Imtiaz Ali said the early opening of overseas bookings was particularly meaningful.

“Overseas advance bookings opening earlier because of public demand is very special for us. I’m deeply grateful for the connection people are already feeling with Main Vaapas Aaunga ahead of its release on 12 June,” he said.

The film features an ensemble cast led by Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari Wagh and Vedang Raina. It also reunites the celebrated creative trio of A.R. Rahman, Irshad Kamil and Imtiaz Ali a collaboration that has previously delivered some of Indian cinema’s most memorable musical works.

Produced by Birla Studios and Applause Entertainment, alongside Mohit Choudhary and Shibasish Sarkar, Main Vaapas Aaunga is a Window Seat Films production. The film will release worldwide on 12 June 2026, with music released under Tips Music and global distribution handled by Birla Studios.

For a film titled Main Vaapas Aaunga (“I Will Return”), the biggest surprise may be that audiences simply couldn’t wait for it to arrive.