The highly anticipated sequel to the 2012 romantic comedy Cocktail has encountered an unexpected delay. Actors Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna were scheduled to shoot portions of Cocktail 2 across various locations in Delhi, including the university area, South Delhi, and Central Delhi, starting November 12. However, the production team has now decided to postpone the schedule in light of rising air pollution levels in the capital and heightened security concerns following the recent car blast near the Red Fort.

According to sources familiar with the project, the team had meticulously planned a seven-day shooting schedule in Delhi, but the twin challenges of environmental and safety risks made it impractical to proceed. “Shahid along with Kriti and Rashmika were supposed to start filming in Delhi from November 12. The makers had a detailed plan for seven days across the city,” the source said.

The postponement comes in the wake of a deadly incident that left Delhi residents on edge. A high-intensity explosion ripped through a car near the Red Fort metro station, killing at least 13 people and injuring 21 others. In addition to the blast, Delhi has been grappling with worsening air quality, with pollution levels reaching hazardous thresholds, particularly in densely populated areas. The combination of these factors prompted the production team to push back the Delhi schedule, though it has not been cancelled outright. “The Delhi schedule is now being planned for December, depending on how the situation evolves. The team will re-evaluate at the end of this month,” the source added.

Cocktail 2 marks the return of director Homi Adajania to a franchise that originally won hearts with its blend of romance, comedy, and friendship dynamics. The first Cocktail, released in 2012, starred Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Diana Penty, and chronicled the intersecting lives of Gautam, a flirtatious man in London; Veronica, a carefree party girl; and Meera, a simple Indian woman. Their friendships and relationships were tested as emotions and love entangled, making the film an instant hit.

For the sequel, the story has been refreshed with a new ensemble cast. Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna will bring their own charm and chemistry to the narrative. While Shahid and Kriti have previously shared screen space in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, this marks the first collaboration with Rashmika, promising fresh dynamics and interactions. The cast has already completed portions of the shoot in Europe, capturing scenic locales and establishing the international backdrop for the sequel.

The filmmakers are determined to maintain both safety and creative integrity while proceeding with the Delhi schedule. In addition to addressing logistical challenges posed by pollution and security, the production must also adapt to ensuring that large public spaces and streets remain safe for filming, given the recent heightened vigilance in the capital.

While fans were eagerly awaiting glimpses of Shahid, Kriti, and Rashmika in the Delhi sequences, the team has assured audiences that the delay is temporary. The rescheduled shoot in December is expected to maintain the planned scale and visual appeal, ensuring that the sequel lives up to the legacy of its predecessor.

As anticipation builds for Cocktail 2, the film promises to blend romance, comedy, and friendship once again, capturing the complexities of relationships with a fresh and contemporary twist. With a cast that has already demonstrated on-screen charisma and a director known for balancing emotional depth with entertainment, the sequel is shaping up to be one of the most awaited releases in 2026.