Fresh pairings to watch out for in 2026: New on-screen couples ready to shine in New Year

2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Hindi cinema, with several first-time actor pairings bringing freshness, curiosity, and new chemistry to the big screen.

From romantic dramas and intense love stories to thrillers and comedies, these new duos are set to capture audience attention and redefine on-screen dynamics.

Akshay Kumar – Wamiqa Gabbi | Bhooth Bangla

The horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla marks multiple firsts. It reunites Akshay Kumar with director Priyadarshan, while also introducing his first-ever pairing with Wamiqa Gabbi. Known for her sharp comic timing, Wamiqa stepping into the classic Akshay–Priyadarshan humour zone has already raised expectations.

Vedang Raina – Sharvari | Imtiaz Ali’s Next

Two of the most promising young actors, Vedang Raina and Sharvari, are teaming up for the first time in Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming directorial. The film’s first schedule in Punjab and the duo’s visit to the Golden Temple before shooting hint at a soulful love story rooted in emotion.

Kartik Aaryan – Sreeleela | Anurag Basu’s Love Story

Kartik Aaryan stars opposite Sreeleela in Anurag Basu’s intense romantic drama. As Sreeleela makes her Bollywood debut, their on-set chemistry has already sparked curiosity, with romance rumours adding to the buzz. The film, delayed from 2025, is expected to release later this year.

Ranbir Kapoor – Sai Pallavi | Ramayana

One of the most anticipated pairings of 2026 brings Ranbir Kapoor together with Sai Pallavi in Nitesh Tiwari’s epic Ramayana. Sai Pallavi steps into Hindi cinema as Sita opposite Ranbir’s Ram, and leaked set images have already generated massive excitement.

Shahid Kapoor – Triptii Dimri | O Romeo

Shahid Kapoor returns to action under Vishal Bhardwaj’s direction in O Romeo, marking his first collaboration with Triptii Dimri. Shahid’s experience combined with Triptii’s raw intensity promises a gripping cinematic experience. The film is set for a Valentine’s Day 2026 release.

Siddhant Chaturvedi – Mrunal Thakur | Do Deewane Seher Mein

Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur come together for the first time in Do Deewane Seher Mein, a romantic drama set in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s world. The first look has already impressed fans, with their chemistry expected to be the film’s biggest strength.

Ayushmann Khurrana – Sara Ali Khan | Pati Patni Aur Woh Do

Ayushmann Khurrana teams up with Sara Ali Khan for the first time in Pati Patni Aur Woh Do. Known for their success in small-town stories, their pairing promises humour, relatability, and charm.

Sidharth Malhotra – Tamannaah Bhatia | Vvan – Force of the Forest

Among the most visually striking new pairings, Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia collaborate for the first time in the mythological folk thriller Vvan – Force of the Forest.

Ananya Panday – Lakshya | Chand Mera Dil

Ananya Panday and Lakshya headline Chand Mera Dil, an intense romantic drama directed by Vivek Soni. The film is locked for an April 2026 release.

Adarsh Gourav – Shanaya Kapoor | Tu Yaa Main

Adarsh Gourav and Shanaya Kapoor join forces in the survival thriller Tu Yaa Main, directed by Bejoy Nambiar.

Abhay Verma – Rasha Thadani | Laikey Laikaa

Rounding off the list is Abhay Verma opposite debutante Rasha Thadani in Laikey Laikaa, a Phantom Films production promising fresh romance and youthful chemistry.

With such diverse and exciting first-time collaborations, 2026 is set to offer audiences a refreshing cinematic year driven by new chemistry and bold bold storytelling.