Feb 23, 2026 4:31pm IST
YRF To Not Go For Netflix’s “Big” Offer, Alia Bhatt-Sharvari’s ‘Alpha’ To Have Theatrical Release, Studio Maintains (EXCLUSIVE)
The theatrical release of Alia Bhatt and Sharvari’s spy-actioner “Alpha” is up in air amid speculation about a possible direct-to-OTT release.
A source recently told us that Yash Raj Films (YRF) has cracked a massive streaming deal with Netflix India, at an estimated ₹215 crore, for a direct digital release of “Alpha,” but the production banner maintains that the film will have a big-screen release.
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In an official statement to Variety India, the YRF spokesperson explains, “[That] 'Alpha’ [is] going to stream directly [is a rumor that] aims at putting a heroine-fronted film in an unflattering light. Yash Raj Films will never put films from its theatrical slate directly to streaming. We are a studio that takes immense pride in making cinematic experiences.” And to underscore that point, adds, “‘Alpha’ is a tentpole movie for the company."
The statement further reads, “‘Alpha’ is our attempt in trying to mount something incredibly special. With one of the finest actors of our country, Alia Bhatt, headlining the film, along with another brilliant young actor, Sharvari. We are hopeful that we have made a good film in ‘Alpha’ and it will entertain everyone and prove that audiences will give the same amount of love to this film as they shower upon other action movies.”
“Alpha” from YRF's Spy Universe was originally scheduled for December 25 last year but was later postponed to April 17, 2026, due to extended, "unrealistic" timelines for visual effects (VFX) work.
Even that date will not be met as the makers have postponed “Alpha” again to avoid a clash with Salman Khan-starrer “Battle of Galwan” in April.
“Alpha,” which also features Bobby Deol in a prominent role, is directed by Shiv Rawail, who garnered appreciation for his OTT show, “The Railway Men,” featuring R. Madhavan, Kay Kay Menon, Divyenndu, Babil Khan, Sunny Hinduja and Juhi Chawla.
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