Sep 17, 2026 11:54am IST
Vikram Bhatt on Casting Ahan Shetty & Anya Singh in ‘1920’ Franchise, ‘I see intensity in Ahan and Vulnerability in Anya’ (EXCLUSIVE)
The “1920” franchise is a highly successful Indian supernatural horror film series created, written, and heavily navigated by filmmaker Vikram Bhatt. The series is widely recognized for its gothic visual style, atmospheric period settings (usually pre-independence India or vintage European manors), themes of demonic possession, and memorable, romantic soundtracks. “1920: Cold Winter” was officially announced following Vikram Bhatt’s recent success, “Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past.” The upcoming film will star Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh and is scheduled to go on floors in December 2026.
Your connection with the ‘1920’ franchise goes back a long way?
I directed the first “1920” in 2007, and it released in 2008. Since then, I’ve been creatively involved with the franchise, but I haven’t directed another one myself.
Why is that?
The first film left such an indelible mark, thanks a lot to Adah Sharma and Rajniesh Duggal, and I didn’t want to repeat myself. After a long time, I found a story that felt different and necessary.
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How different is ‘1920 Cold Winter’ from the other films in the series?
It’s still within the world of ghostly possession, but it’s a very different kind of possession this time.
What made you cast Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh?
I had wanted to cast Ahan earlier, but the dates never worked out. I’ve known his father, Suniel Shetty, for years, but that’s not why Ahan’s here. He’s in the film because I see a real intensity in him. Anya has this rare mix of vulnerability and strength that I just loved.
How do you explain the enduring popularity of the horror genre?
Horror works because it’s honest. You buy a ticket knowing you’re there to be scared. It’s a roller coaster. It’s for adrenaline junkies.
Do you think the ‘1920’ brand has a long life ahead?
Whether “1920” goes on for many more films isn’t really for me to declare. It comes down to the audience. As long as we keep the stories fresh and give them that ride, why would it need to stop?
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