Prashanth Neel’s Dragon with NTR Set to Be a Big-Budget Blockbuster with Profit-Sharing Deal

After the massive success of the KGF franchise, director Prashanth Neel is now one of the most sought-after filmmakers in Indian cinema. His current project, a high-octane action thriller tentatively titled Dragon, stars Jr. NTR in the lead and is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Telugu films to date.

High Stakes and Big Paychecks

Backed jointly by Mythri Movie Makers and NTR Arts, the film is currently midway through its shoot and is scheduled for release in 2026. Both Jr. NTR and Neel are reportedly taking home massive remunerations, with NTR charging a triple-digit crore figure, making him one of the highest-paid actors in the country.

Interestingly, Prashanth Neel is not only being paid a hefty upfront fee but has also secured a 50% share in the film’s profits — a rare deal in the industry. As per the agreement, Mythri Movie Makers and NTR Arts will split the remaining 50% of the profits, with each banner receiving 25%. This reflects the immense faith the producers have in Neel’s vision and the project’s commercial potential.

Cast and Crew

The film stars Rukmini Vasanth as the female lead, continuing her rise in the South Indian film industry. Neel has brought back his core technical team from KGF and Salaar, promising a rich and gritty cinematic experience.

Setting and Genre

Dragon is said to be a periodic action drama set along the Indian border, blending patriotic undertones with Prashanth Neel’s trademark intense storytelling and visual flair. The storyline, though under wraps, is expected to showcase NTR in a fierce, larger-than-life avatar, much like the iconic characters of Rocky Bhai in KGF and Deva in Salaar.

One of 2026’s Most Anticipated Films

With an all-star cast, top-tier production houses, and Prashanth Neel at the helm, Dragon is already among the most anticipated films of 2026. The buzz around its unique setting, high-stakes action, and staggering budget — powered by bold profit-sharing deals — has set sky-high expectations among fans and trade circles alike.

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