Acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has joined hands with veteran director Ketan Mehta for ‘Jai Somnath’, an ambitious historical drama based on a significant chapter of Indian history.

The film will revisit events from 1025–1026 AD, when Mahmud of Ghazni attacked and plundered the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, a moment that reflects the resilience and spirit of rebuilding after destruction.

According to a UNI report, the film coincides with 1,000 years since the attack and destruction of the temple and aims to symbolise India’s enduring courage and the pride of its civilisation. Despite its deep historical significance and emotional resonance, this episode has largely remained unexplored in mainstream Indian cinema, making the project a notable addition to the genre.

The collaboration between Bhansali and Mehta is being seen as a key highlight of the project. While Bhansali is widely recognised for his grand cinematic style and visually rich storytelling, Mehta is known for his bold narratives and strong historical vision. The coming together of their creative sensibilities is expected to blend historical depth with large-scale cinematic presentation.

Their shared Gujarati roots are also expected to add authenticity and emotional depth to the film’s narrative. By combining detailed historical context with expansive storytelling, Jai Somnath aims to offer an immersive experience to audiences while bringing a lesser-known chapter of history to the forefront.

The film is being produced under the banners of Bhansali Productions and Maya Movies, with Ketan Mehta serving as both writer and director. ‘Jai Somnath’ is scheduled to release in theatres in 2027.