Playback Singer Heer in Talks to Make Her Acting Debut in Imtiaz Ali’s Side Heroes
Bollywood may soon see playback singer Heer move from the recording studio to the screen. The singer is reportedly in advanced discussions to play one of the female leads in Side Heroes, an upcoming friendship comedy produced by Imtiaz Ali and Mahaveer Jain. The film is also expected to introduce new faces, adding a fresh dimension to its ensemble cast.
News of the project’s search for emerging female talent first surfaced in July. Now, a source close to the production has indicated that the makers have identified Heer as a strong fit for one of the roles. While her casting has not yet been formally announced, discussions are said to be at an advanced stage, with an official confirmation expected soon.
Why Heer Could Be a Natural Fit for the Role
Heer’s musical background appears to be especially relevant to her character. According to a source quoted by Bollywood Hungama, the role is that of a singer—making Heer’s real-life experience an advantage both on and off camera.
“Heer is not just a talented singer but also a promising performer. She gave an impressive audition, and the makers felt that she would be perfect for the part. Interestingly, her character in the film is also a singer. Hence, casting a real-life playback singer would lend authenticity to the character,” the source said.
That combination could allow the film to bring a more convincing musical presence to the screen. A performer familiar with the demands of singing may be able to portray the rhythms of a musician’s life with added ease, while also contributing naturally to any scenes involving rehearsals or live performance. However, the makers have yet to share details about the character or confirm whether Heer will sing in the film.
From Playback Success to a Possible Screen Debut
Heer has built a growing profile in playback singing, working with prominent composers and lending her voice to films across different languages and genres. Among her recent credits are two songs from Aamir Khan’s production Batwara 1947: “Tabassum,” performed alongside Sonu Nigam, and “Chal Anjaane.” Both tracks were composed by A. R. Rahman, whose work has helped shape some of Indian cinema’s most memorable soundtracks.
Heer has also contributed to Rahman’s music for the pan-India film Peddi, starring Ram Charan, with her voice featured on “Hellallallo.” The project adds to her experience working on music designed to reach audiences across language and regional boundaries.
Her recent Bollywood songs include “Roop Di Rani” from Pati Patni Aur Woh Do, featuring Guru Randhawa, and “Chhaap Tilak” from Ginny Wedss Sunny 2. Both were composed by Tanishk Bagchi. Taken together, these projects point to a singer whose work spans different musical styles—and whose possible move into acting could introduce her to a wider audience.
Side Heroes Brings Friendship and Nostalgia to the Heartland
Side Heroes is described as a humorous reunion story centred on friendship, shared memories and the passage of time. Set in the heartland of India, the film is expected to combine comedy with nostalgia, exploring what happens when old friends reconnect and revisit the relationships and experiences that shaped them.
The ensemble includes Varun Sharma, Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana, with Heer reportedly being considered for one of the female lead roles. The mix of established comic performers and a potential newcomer could give the film a balance of familiar screen energy and fresh talent.
The project is produced by Imtiaz Ali, Mahaveer Jain, Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and Shikha K. Ahluwalia. Siddarth Sen, director of Good Luck Jerry, has written the screenplay with Pankaj Matta, while Ssanjay Tripaathy is directing. With filmmakers and performers from varied creative backgrounds involved, the film brings together a team experienced in comedy, character-driven storytelling and mainstream Hindi cinema.
A Rare Hindi Film Shoot in Bihar
One distinctive feature of the production is its location. In September, Bollywood Hungama reported that Side Heroes would be among the relatively rare Hindi films to be shot entirely in Bihar. Choosing the state as the film’s full production base could give its setting a greater sense of place than a story that uses only a few location shots.
Filming in Bihar may also help the movie capture regional landscapes, everyday details and local atmosphere in a more grounded way. For audiences, that could make the heartland setting an integral part of the story rather than simply a backdrop. The decision also reflects a broader interest in taking Hindi film productions beyond the industry’s most frequently used locations.
Friendship Day 2027 Release Planned
The makers are reportedly planning to release Side Heroes on Friendship Day 2027—a date that closely matches the film’s central theme. The occasion offers a natural opportunity to market a story about long-standing bonds, reunion and the memories friends carry into adulthood.
For now, Heer’s involvement remains unconfirmed, and further details about the plot, supporting cast and music are awaited. If the discussions conclude as expected, her potential role would mark an intriguing next step in a career that has so far been defined by playback singing. With a friendship-led story, a Bihar setting and a cast blending familiar faces with emerging talent, Side Heroes is shaping up as a Bollywood comedy to watch ahead of its planned 2027 release.
