Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, May 8: Actress Kriti Sanon has addressed comparisons between the upcoming Cocktail 2 and the 2012 hit Cocktail, clarifying that the new project is not a direct sequel but part of a franchise carrying a similar vibe.

The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles and has already generated significant buzz among moviegoers.

Speaking at the Femina Beauty Awards, Kriti said comparisons with the original film were inevitable but emphasised that the story and characters in the new film are different.

“I’m sure a comparison is going to happen, but the good part is that this is not a sequel; it’s a franchise. So it’s more of a vibe franchise, and the characters are separate,” she said.

The actress also praised her co-star Rashmika Mandanna, describing her as warm and genuine.

“She’s just a very genuine person, kind, lovely and warm. No insecurity. Just goodness. I’ve had so much fun with her, and she’s amazing,” Kriti added.

The original Cocktail, directed by Homi Adajania, featured Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty in lead roles and went on to become a cult romantic comedy.

Meanwhile, rumours about Deepika Padukone reprising her iconic character Veronica in Cocktail 2 have gone viral on social media.

Speculation intensified after a Reddit post claimed that Deepika had already shot for a special cameo appearance in the film after reportedly meeting the makers at Maddock Films’ office.

However, there has been no official confirmation regarding her appearance in the movie.

Deepika’s portrayal of Veronica in the original film remains one of her most popular performances and continues to enjoy a strong fan following.

Cocktail 2 is being directed by Homi Adajania and produced by Maddock Films. The screenplay has been written by Luv Ranjan.

The film has reportedly been shot across multiple locations, including Sicily in Italy and parts of Delhi and North India such as Chhatarpur, Gurugram and South Delhi.