Gaurav Verma’s Avanika Films Announces ‘Prem Keetanu’ Starring Veer Pahariya and Aparshakti Khurana for October 2 Release
Producer Gaurav Verma’s newly established production banner, Avanika Films, has officially announced its maiden feature film, Prem Keetanu. Co-presented in collaboration with Phars Films, the youthful comedy is scheduled to make its worldwide theatrical debut on October 2, 2026.
Helmed by director Apoorv Singh Karki—widely recognized for his critically acclaimed work on Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai and the popular streaming series Aspirants—the film boasts an ensemble cast led by Veer Pahariya, Aafiya Sayed, Aparshakti Khurana, Rakesh Bedi, and Nikhil Vijay. Positioned as a humorous yet deeply relatable coming-of-age narrative, the story follows a close-knit group of young men as they navigate the trials of college life, from academic setbacks and unfulfilled romantic hopes to personal ambitions and enduring friendships.
In addition to leading this project, lad actor Veer Pahariya is set to expand his repertoire with the upcoming dark action thriller Naam – To Live Is War. How about checking the details as shared on the microblogging site:
GAURAV VERMA TURNS INDEPENDENT PRODUCER WITH ‘PREM KEETANU’ – RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCED… #GauravVerma, who has been associated with several noteworthy films, turns independent producer with his newly established banner, Avanika Films.
Gaurav has announced the worldwide theatrical… pic.twitter.com/fXA3hvdHUr
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) August 12, 2026
Prem Keetanu represents the foundational step for Avanika Films. Gaurav Verma established the independent studio following a successful run as an independent producer at Red Chillies Entertainment, where he oversaw major commercial and critical hits including Jawan, Darlings, Badla, and Bhakshak. With his new venture, Verma aims to curate character-driven stories that balance emotional authenticity with mainstream cinematic appeal.
By capturing the relatable chaos of youth while evoking nostalgic themes of camaraderie for older generations, Prem Keetanu sets the tone for Avanika Films’ slate of planned theatrical releases. The film is positioned to draw audiences into theaters globally during the competitive Gandhi Jayanti holiday weekend. Stay tuned to know more about it and others only with us and if you have anything to share do comment below and share your thoughts.
