Ektaa Kapoor is bringing back ‘The Dirty Picture’ with a sequel, 15 years after the original film hit theatres. The producer has confirmed that ‘The Dirty Picture 2’ is in the works, revealing that she has finally found a story she wants to explore. While the details of the project remain under wraps, Ektaa has indicated that the upcoming film will once again centre on a woman whose story she wants to bring to the screen.In a conversation with Ranveer Allahbadia on his podcast, Ektaa spoke about the major projects she is currently developing and confirmed that the sequel is among them.“One very big film I’m making is The Dirty Picture 2. I’m planning it after 15 years. This time, I believe there is a story I want to tell,” she said.The original ‘The Dirty Picture’ was released in 2011 and featured Vidya Balan in the lead role, alongside Naseeruddin Shah, Emraan Hashmi and Tusshar Kapoor. Inspired by the life of South Indian actress Silk Smitha, the film explored the complexities of a woman who challenged social conventions around sexuality and faced judgement for her choices.Reflecting on the film’s central character, Ektaa explained that she never viewed Silk Smitha as a victim. Instead, she saw her as a woman who embraced her sexuality on her own terms.“The Dirty Picture was about Silk Smitha. It was about a woman who was condemned for standing up against her sexuality. Ab sexuality is about your choice. Maine kabhi usse victim ki tarah nahi dekha. I saw her as someone who celebrated her sexuality, and the film did so well,” Ektaa said.The producer added that the sequel will once again focus on a woman whose story has something significant to say, drawing a connection with the spirit of the original film. However, she has not revealed whose life or experiences will inspire the new instalment.While confirming the sequel, Ektaa stopped short of sharing further details about the project. The makers have yet to reveal the cast, director or release date, and it remains unclear who will take on the lead role in the upcoming film. Ektaa has also not made an official announcement through her social media accounts.The original ‘The Dirty Picture’ arrived in cinemas on December 2, 2011, and became widely associated with Vidya Balan’s performance as a character inspired by Silk Smitha. The South Indian actress appeared in more than 450 films over an 18-year career. She died by suicide at the age of 35 at her residence in Chennai.With Ektaa now confirming that a sequel is in development, further details about the story and the woman at its centre are awaited.
