As Bollywood finds its feet again amid Unlock, the actor on Wednesday announced a new film alongside Kedarnath director Abhishek Kapoor, in which he will be essaying the role of a cross-functional athlete. Set in north India, the yet untitled film is touted as a progressive love story that will touch everyone’s hearts.

Elated to collaborate with Abhishek for the first time, Ayushmann expressed, “Abhishek has a very distinct voice in cinema today and I’m glad that we finally got the opportunity to collaborate on a project that’s exceedingly close to my heart. This film has all the trappings to take audiences through a ride of emotions and it is a total family entertainer. It is a beautiful, progressive love story that will also touch your hearts.”

 He added, “I’m supremely excited about the physical transformation that I will have to undergo. It will present me in an all-new avatar. I have never looked like this on screen and I’m looking forward to seeing the reaction of audiences. The process is going to be intense and excruciating for me but I feel all the pain will be worth it.”

 Elaborating Ayushmann’s role, Abhishek said, “Ayushmann and I are both known for a certain kind of cinema and this film is definitely a special one for both of us. We want audiences to come back to the theatres and watch movies as a community and for that we will spare no effort. We strive to bring our best game for this one. Ayushmann plays a Cross Functional Athlete in the film and he will have to go through a physical transformation that he hasn’t done before. It’s quite a challenge and he’s very committed to it.”

Slated for a release next year, the film will go on floors in October.