First Ray Films: A Decade of Distinct Voices, A Future of Amplified Cinema

First Ray Films, founded by actor-filmmaker Anshuman Jha, is preparing to launch its next decade of filmmaking with a robust slate of six new projects scheduled from 2026 to 2028. The production company will showcase this lineup at the upcoming Cannes Film Market in May.

Two films are slated for Indian theatrical release in 2026. "Om Ka Hari," directed by Harish Vyas and starring Jha, is scheduled for June. Additionally, Jha will direct "Lakadbaggha 2: The Monkey Business," the sequel to his 2023 vigilante franchise, set for a November release.

The slate continues with "Bajrangi" in post-production and "Bhadyaa" currently shooting, both slated for 2027. For 2028, First Ray Films is backing "But First, The Burning," an international co-production, and "Dhoori," directed by Rumana Molla.

Founded in 2016, First Ray Films has built a reputation for supporting unique filmmaking voices and developing strong distribution strategies. Jha expressed his vision for the next decade: "amplifying our voice, backing stories that matter, filmmakers who take risks, and cinema that can travel across borders without losing its soul."

Director Devashish Makhija, whose film "But First, The Burning" is part of the new slate, praised First Ray Films for its support of filmmakers, stating, "What First Ray stands for in today's scene is rare - a producer who doesn't just pull out all stops to protect the filmmaker's voice, but constructs wings to push it higher and further."

The company's presence at the Cannes Film Market signifies a growing trend among Indian independent filmmakers seeking international co-production opportunities and wider theatrical distribution.