Mumbai, July 22, 2026: One of Bollywood’s most delayed unreleased projects is finally moving toward audiences. Pooja Meri Jaan, the psychological thriller starring Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi, is set to premiere on Zee5, ending a long period of uncertainty that left both the filmmakers and cast waiting for updates.
The streaming platform recently unveiled the film as part of its upcoming content lineup, although an official premiere date has not yet been announced.
A Film That Spent Years in Release Limbo
Directed by Navjot Gulati and backed by Maddock Films, Pooja Meri Jaan completed filming years ago and was initially expected to arrive much sooner.
Production wrapped in 2022, with post-production reportedly completed by the end of the same year. However, despite being ready for release, the project remained unseen due to distribution complications and changing dynamics within the streaming industry.
The film was originally commissioned for release on JioCinema, but its future became uncertain following major restructuring in India’s OTT landscape.
How Platform Changes Affected the Film
According to public statements previously made by director Navjot Gulati, the project faced significant hurdles after the merger involving JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar.
Gulati stated that the producers were informed the film could potentially be sold to another platform, but subsequent developments led to prolonged delays.
As months turned into years, the project remained unreleased despite being fully completed and ready for audiences.
Industry observers note that platform mergers and content strategy shifts have occasionally left completed films in uncertain positions, particularly projects originally developed for digital-first distribution.
Director’s Emotional Appeal Earlier This Year
Earlier in 2026, Navjot Gulati publicly expressed frustration over the continued delay.
In interviews, the filmmaker spoke emotionally about the personal impact the situation had on him and his family.
He revealed that his father, who passed away in 2024, repeatedly asked about the film’s release during the final months of his life.
According to Gulati, his father remained hopeful that he would eventually see the project reach audiences, making the prolonged delay particularly painful for the director.
Gulati also voiced concerns about the lack of communication surrounding the film’s future and urged stakeholders to ensure the project finally reached viewers.
A Thriller Centered on Stalking and Cybercrime
Pooja Meri Jaan explores themes of stalking, obsession, and cybercrime—topics that remain highly relevant in today’s increasingly digital world.
While detailed plot information has been kept largely under wraps, the film is expected to blend psychological tension with contemporary social issues.
The thriller stars:
- Mrunal Thakur
- Huma Qureshi
- Vikram Singh Chauhan
- Vijay Raaz
The combination of experienced performers and a subject rooted in modern concerns has generated interest among viewers since the project’s announcement.
Why the Release Matters
The arrival of Pooja Meri Jaan represents more than just another OTT premiere.
For filmmakers, it serves as a reminder of the challenges that can arise when completed projects become caught in distribution uncertainty.
For audiences, it offers an opportunity to finally watch a film that has been discussed for years but remained inaccessible.
The release also highlights the evolving nature of India’s streaming industry, where mergers, platform strategies, and content realignment can significantly influence when and how projects reach viewers.
Strong Interest Around the Lead Cast
The film’s release comes at a time when both lead actors continue to maintain strong visibility across cinema and streaming platforms.
Mrunal Thakur has established herself as one of the most sought-after performers across Hindi and South Indian cinema, while Huma Qureshi continues to balance mainstream entertainment with performance-driven projects.
Their pairing has been one of the film’s biggest talking points since production began.
Awaiting the Official Premiere Date
Although Zee5 has confirmed the film’s inclusion in its upcoming slate, the platform has yet to announce a specific streaming date.
Industry watchers expect further details in the coming weeks as promotional activities begin.
For the cast, crew, and especially director Navjot Gulati, the announcement marks a significant milestone after years of waiting.
After nearly four years of uncertainty, Pooja Meri Jaan is finally preparing to meet its audience—bringing closure to one of the most prolonged release delays in recent Bollywood OTT history.
