Is 'Ishq Next Door' Bollywood's Next Rom-Com Blockbuster?

Bollywood is buzzing with excitement as 'Ishq Next Door,' starring Kriti Sanon and debutant Rohan Mehra, hit theaters this Friday, April 10th, 2026. Early reviews are pouring in, and initial reactions suggest this could be the rom-com we've all been waiting for. The film, directed by Neha Sharma, promises a fresh take on modern love, with a healthy dose of humor and heartwarming moments. Will it charm its way to the top of the box office? Let's dive in.

'Ishq Next Door' - A Modern Love Story

The film revolves around Anya (Kriti Sanon), a successful architect who finds her life turned upside down when a charming, albeit slightly clumsy, musician, Veer (Rohan Mehra), moves in next door. What starts as a series of comical misunderstandings blossoms into an unexpected romance. The supporting cast includes veteran actors like Paresh Rawal and Supriya Pathak, adding depth and humor to the narrative. The screenplay is penned by Gautam Mehra, known for his witty dialogues and relatable characters.

“I wanted to create a film that reflects the realities of modern relationships,” director Neha Sharma told News Reporter Live in an exclusive interview. “'Ishq Next Door' is about finding love in unexpected places and embracing the imperfections that make us unique.”

Audience Reactions and Box Office Predictions

The opening day box office collection is estimated to be around ₹18 crore, a promising start for a film with a relatively fresh face in the lead. Audience reactions have been largely positive, with many praising Kriti Sanon's performance and Rohan Mehra's natural charm. Social media is flooded with comments like “'Ishq Next Door' is the perfect weekend watch!” and “Rohan Mehra is definitely a star in the making!”

However, some critics have pointed out that the plot is somewhat predictable, and the film relies heavily on tried-and-tested rom-com tropes. Despite this, the overall consensus is that 'Ishq Next Door' is a feel-good entertainer that will resonate with audiences of all ages. reportersays, industry analysts predict the movie could gross over ₹100 crore domestically if it maintains its momentum in the coming days. The music, composed by Pritam, is already topping the charts, further fueling the film's popularity.

OTT Release and What to Watch Next

For those who prefer to watch from the comfort of their homes, 'Ishq Next Door' is expected to be available on Amazon Prime Video approximately 6-8 weeks after its theatrical release. So, mark your calendars! Meanwhile, if you are a fan of Kriti Sanon, you can catch her previous hits like 'Mimi' and 'Bareilly Ki Barfi' on Netflix. For those who enjoyed the music of 'Ishq Next Door', Pritam's other melodious soundtracks from movies like 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' are also worth checking out.

Speaking to News Reporter Live, film critic Taran Adarsh said, "'Ishq Next Door' is a delightful romantic comedy that offers a lighthearted escape. While it may not be groundbreaking, it's definitely worth a watch for its charming performances and feel-good vibe."