In a significant casting update that reflects the evolving nature of the cinematic universe, acclaimed actor Adil Hussain has come on board Hyena 2: The Monkey BusinessMilind Soman will be replacing him in the role of Sensei in the much-awaited sequel to release later this year.
Adil Hussain replaces Milind Soman in Anshuman Jha’s Lakdbagha 2: The Monkey Business
Globally, audiences are used to seeing iconic characters re-enacted by different actors – be it James Bond, Superman or Spider-Man. Indian cinema is now stepping into this field, and hyena The universe is at the forefront of this change. Known as the world’s first animal-loving vigilante universe, hyena The shooting of its sequel was completed in June 2025, after which lead actor Anshuman Jha also took over the responsibilities behind the scenes.
Best known internationally for his work life of piAdil Hussain steps into a role that is significantly expanded in the sequel. Hyena 2: The Monkey Business Promises an intense, darker and more action-heavy narrative, with the Sensei character playing a key role in the hero’s journey.
The film bills itself as a martial arts action spectacle with a powerful international ensemble cast, including martial arts veterans Sunny Pang (Headshot, Havoc) and Dan Seechupong (Ongbak). The Indian cast includes Sarah Jane Dias, Vikram Kochhar and Anshuman Jha, who reprises his role as Arjun Bakshi, an ordinary man turned animal-loving vigilante.
Talking about the casting, Adil Hussain said, “Looking at hyena-1 was very inspiring. It felt like someone was finally making a film that stood up for animal rights – something we haven’t seen in decades, maybe since Haathi Mere Saathi in the seventies. I also had the privilege of working with Anshuman Jha, both under his direction and as a co-actor. The martial arts training and action sequences were challenging, but Anshuman has been incredibly supportive and generous throughout the process. I’m really grateful to be a part of this hyena Franchise.”
Adding another layer to its expanding mythology hyena The comic book universe, launched last year, is growing in parallel with the film franchise, strengthening its ambitions as a multi-format Indian action universe with a global outlook.
Hyena 2: The Monkey Business Expected to be released in mid-2026, it marks the next chapter in a franchise that blends action, conscience, and animal welfare into a distinct cinematic identity.
