Television Star Aneri Vajani Enters Gujarati Cinema with Dharmesh Mehta’s Festive Family Drama “Jai Kanhaiyalal Ki…!”

For actress Aneri Vajani, life seems to have come full circle. After winning hearts on television with memorable performances in shows like Nisha Aur Uske Cousins, Beyhadh, Anupamaa and Khatron Ke Khiladi, she’s now ready to embrace her cultural roots with her Gujarati film debut in the upcoming family entertainer Jai Kanhaiyalal Ki…! The announcement, made on the auspicious occasion of Dussehra, has created a wave of excitement among fans and film enthusiasts alike.

The film, directed by Dharmesh Mehta, known for his expertise in delivering relatable, heartwarming stories, is being touted as a colourful, musical family drama that celebrates togetherness and tradition. The cast brings together some of Gujarati cinema’s most respected names — Siddharth Randeria, Vaishalee Thakkar, and Hitu Kanodia — alongside Aneri, who steps into this world with freshness and grace. The shoot begins this week, and the film is already marked for a January 9, 2026 release, promising a festive start to the new year.

For Aneri, this debut holds deep personal significance. Coming from a Gujarati family, the transition into regional cinema feels more like a heartfelt homecoming than a career shift. “It’s not just about language,” a close source reveals, “it’s about identity, connection, and celebrating her roots. Aneri has always been proud of where she comes from, and now she gets to reflect that on screen.” Having started her television journey back in 2012 with Kaali – Ek Punar Avatar, Aneri has grown from a promising newcomer into a household name. Her ability to bring sincerity and emotional depth to her characters has made her one of the most relatable faces on Indian television.

Industry insiders believe her move to Gujarati cinema couldn’t have come at a better time. The industry has been expanding rapidly, finding new audiences across India and even overseas. “Gujarati films today have a fresh cinematic appeal — great storytelling, modern aesthetics, and deep-rooted values,” says a trade expert. “Having a known face like Aneri Vajani step in will bridge audiences even further. It’s a sign of how much regional cinema has evolved.”

The motion poster of Jai Kanhaiyalal Ki…! — released on Dussehra — set the tone perfectly. With bright hues, festive music, and a lively energy, it promises an emotional rollercoaster packed with laughter, music, and family warmth. There’s already buzz that the film will explore themes of faith, relationships, and celebration, woven together through lighthearted storytelling and strong performances. The combination of Dharmesh Mehta’s direction and Siddharth Randeria’s commanding screen presence hints at a film that will resonate with both traditional and modern audiences.

Aneri’s inclusion brings a youthful vibrancy to the project. Known for her expressive acting and emotional depth, she has consistently portrayed women with strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Her transition to the big screen is seen as a natural evolution — a chance to challenge herself while connecting to a new audience. Those close to her say she’s been taking her time preparing for this role, ensuring her performance feels organic and rooted in Gujarati sensibilities.

As the buzz grows, fans have already begun sharing their excitement online, flooding social media with messages of love and anticipation. Many believe that Aneri’s entry into Gujarati cinema marks the beginning of a new era where popular television talents seamlessly cross over into regional industries, bringing both recognition and reach.

With its stellar cast, festive release date, and heartfelt storytelling, Jai Kanhaiyalal Ki…! is shaping up to be one of Gujarati cinema’s most awaited releases of 2026. And for Aneri Vajani, this is more than just a debut — it’s a return to her cultural heartbeat, a journey from the small screen to the silver one, with the same authenticity that made audiences fall in love with her in the first place.