Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s entry into Bollywood wasn’t quiet – it roared. Kabir Singh, led by Shahid Kapoor, became one of 2019’s most debated and commercially explosive films. Love it or loathe it, the film carved a permanent place in pop culture.
A few years later, Vanga returned with Animal, headlined by Ranbir Kapoor. The 2023 crime drama matched – and arguably exceeded – the noise, drawing both massive box-office numbers and sharply divided opinions.
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With two intense, emotionally volatile worlds created by the same filmmaker, fans naturally began imagining a crossover. And interestingly, it almost happened.
The Crossover That Nearly Was
As Animal was taking shape, the makers briefly toyed with the idea of connecting it to Kabir Singh. Not through a major plot twist, but via a blink-and-miss cameo – an Easter egg for fans who had followed Vanga’s filmography closely. Shahid Kapoor recently revealed that he was indeed approached during the early stages of the film.
While promoting O’Romeo, the actor confirmed that Vanga had personally discussed the possibility with him.
Shahid Kapoor Spills the Details
Speaking to Dainik Bhaskar, Shahid recalled the conversation and said, “Jab Animal bhi ban rahi thi, actually Sandeep had come to meet me. He wanted one scene of Kabir to be there in that, but woh ho nahi paaya… Kuch dates ka issue ho gaya, koi dusra issue ho gaya. But yes, he had said that I want one scene. Phir wo hua nahi.”
Scheduling conflicts and logistical hurdles ultimately kept Kabir Singh away from Animal’s universe.
Why the Idea Was Dropped?
Beyond dates, the creative direction also shifted. As the narrative evolved, the cameo reportedly didn’t fit the emotional gravity of Animal. Rather than forcing a fan-service moment, the team chose to preserve the film’s standalone tone.
Reflecting on that decision, Shahid shared, “It was considered initially, but eventually it was not included,” He further added, “Woh dono characters unke hain, woh duniya unki hai. Toh unke saath unko joh mann mein aayega karne ke liye, wo karenge.”
In the end, the director prioritized storytelling over spectacle.
What’s Next for the Stars?
While Kabir Singh never crossed paths with Ranbir’s troubled protagonist, both actors remain busy. Shahid Kapoor is gearing up for O’Romeo alongside Triptii Dimri – who notably appeared in Animal. Meanwhile, Ranbir Kapoor has a packed lineup featuring Ramayana and Love & War. He also has Animal Park in the pipeline.
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Adding another chapter to its success, Animal is also preparing for a theatrical release in Japan, extending its global footprint.
Even without the cameo, the “what if” remains an intriguing footnote for fans of Vanga’s cinematic universe.
