The upcoming online release of O’Romeo, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, has sparked renewed interest in its storyline and characters. After its theatrical release in February 2026, the film is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on March 27, 2026, before transitioning to full streaming in mid-April, pending confirmation from the platform.
O’Romeo is based on the book Mafia Queens of Mumbai, centering on the characters Ustara and Afshan. In the film, Afshan seeks vengeance against her husband’s murderer, Jalal. Ustara assists her in her quest, and amid the action, they develop a romantic connection. The film also features notable actors like Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, and Disha Patani, contributing to its compelling narrative.
While the movie portrays a romantic relationship between Ustara and Afshan, real-life accounts paint a different picture. Days before the film’s release, Ustara’s daughter issued a legal notice to the filmmakers, asserting that the depiction of their relationship was inaccurate. She emphasized that her father had trained Sapna Didi, noting their familial-like bond and that she frequently visited their home.
In a related conversation with the media, Ustara’s daughter elaborated on Sapna Didi’s circumstances following the tragic death of her husband. She explained that Sapna had no children or family to support her and that Ustara was the only person willing to help her during that difficult time. This statement contrasts sharply with the romantic narrative depicted in the film, highlighting the complexities of real-life relationships versus cinematic portrayals.
Regarding the film’s financial performance, it was produced on a budget of ₹150 crore but only grossed ₹121 crore globally, which some speculate may have influenced its early availability on OTT platforms. The cast’s remuneration indicates the film’s star power, with Shahid Kapoor reportedly earning ₹45 crore and Triptii Dimri receiving ₹6 crore, while Vikrant Massey took no payment for his role.
O’Romeo has generated a significant amount of discussion not only about its content but also the real-life implications of its characters. Viewers are left to ponder the authenticity of the portrayals and the dynamics behind Ustara and Sapna Didi’s relationship as they anticipate the film’s OTT release. What do you think about the upcoming release and the reality versus fiction of these stories?