Last Updated:January 14, 2026, 10:50 IST

Produced under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions, Happy Patel is set to release on January 16.

Vir Das plays the lead role in Happy Patel. (Photo Credit: X)

Vir Das has finally received an ‘A’, and no, it is not the report card kind you are thinking of. After much anticipation, Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, starring Vir in the lead role, has officially been cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Ahead of its theatrical release on January 16, the film has received an ‘A’ certificate. Vir, in his signature witty style, marked the moment with a post on Instagram.

Along with a picture of the certification on social media, Vir wrote, “Not a good student, only A I’ve EVER received”, instantly sending fans into a laugh. The certification image also reveals that the nearly two-hour-long film required just five changes before clearance. Backed by Aamir Khan, the project has managed to pass through the CBFC with minimal edits.

In his caption of the post, Vir also dropped another exciting update. He announced that the advance bookings for the film open on January 14, writing, “Happy Patel Jan 16! Advance bookings open TOM.”

Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos is a quirky spy comedy which marks the directorial debut of actor-comedian Vir Das. He also plays the lead role in the film that boasts an ensemble cast including Mona Singh, Sharib Hashmi, Mithila Palkar and Srushti Tawade. In one of the most intriguing aspects of the film, Happy Patel marks Imran Khan’s return to the big screen after a long hiatus.

How Imran Khan Came On Board

Earlier, Vir Das shared an interesting behind-the-scenes anecdote, revealing how Imran came on board most unexpectedly. On Instagram, he shared a text exchange with the actor and wrote, “True story! We thought of the maddest thing and made Imran do it in Happy Patel. January 16th, you get to see him, and I can’t wait! This is the actual screenshot from Feb 2024.”

As per the snapshot, Imran had messaged Vir in 2024. He had written, “Hey, been hearing good stuff about the film you’re making! Any place I could cameo, you think?” Vir, excited enough, quickly responded with, “Are you kidding me???? ABSOLUTELY!!! Let me find something cool. I’m going to make sure it’s insane and fun.”

Happy Patel Release Date

Not long ago, the makers released the film’s trailer, which showcases Vir Das in a never-before-seen avatar as he plays a perfectly imperfect spy on a mission. Produced under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions, Happy Patel also stars Aamir in a quirky role. The film is slated to release in theatres on January 16, 2026.