Salman Khan's SVC63: Akshaye Khanna Or Fahadh Faasil; Who Will Play Lead Antagonist?

Salman Khan and Nayanthara have begun filming for director Vamshi Paidipally's action drama SVC63, but the antagonist is yet to be locked. A recent report claims Akshaye Khanna and Fahadh Faasil are being seriously considered for the villain's role, with producer Dil Raju closely involved in the casting discussions.

According to Mid Day, the team has completed the opening shooting schedule of SVC63. The next leg is expected in Manali, followed by an extensive Hyderabad schedule. The makers reportedly want the villain finalised before cameras roll in Hyderabad, as several major confrontation scenes depend on that decision.

SVC63 and Salman Khan: casting the villain and key shooting plans

A source quoted by the publication explained the kind of performer the script needs. "The script demands someone who can stand toe-to-toe with Salman," the source said. The report added that both Fahadh and Akshaye offer very different screen energies, which is why the team is weighing options carefully instead of rushing.

The same report mentioned that Arvind Swamy had also been considered earlier for SVC63. Present plans suggest that the intense face-off sequences between Salman and the finalised antagonist will be filmed during the Hyderabad leg. These portions are expected to form the dramatic core of the film's narrative.

Salman Khan First Collaboration With Nayanthara

SVC63 marks several first-time collaborations for Salman. Nayanthara plays the female lead opposite Salman for the first time. This is also Salman's maiden project with director Vamshi Paidipally and producer Dil Raju. The film is lined up for a theatrical release on Eid 2027, giving the team ample production time.

While revealing the release plan earlier on Instagram, Salman explained the long lead time with a playful note. Salman wrote, "Thoda durr ki sochna chahiye, That's why announced Eid..... Don't worry iss wali ka bhi bataenge, when the time is right......," hinting that more information on the project will follow later.

Salman Khan Upcoming Projects

Before SVC63 arrives, Salman is expected to be seen in Apoorva Lakhia's Maatrubhumi with Chitrangada Singh. The film, previously titled Battle of Galwan, is based on the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers. It was planned for an April theatrical release, but the makers have pushed the date.

Salman's most recent big-screen appearance was in AR Murugadoss' Sikandar, co-starring Rashmika Mandanna. The film also featured Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Sathyaraj, Jatin Sarna and Sanjay Kapoor. Despite the ensemble, Sikandar did not perform well at the box office, placing extra attention on Salman's upcoming line-up, including SVC63 and Maatrubhumi.