The release date of Sonakshi Sinha’s upcoming supernatural-thriller Nikita Roy has been postponed. The film, helmed by Sonakshi’s brother Kussh S Sinha, was earlier scheduled to hit theatres on June 27, alongside Kajol’s Maa, however, now it will be releasing on July 18.

Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films, the production house backing Nikita Roy, took to social media on Thursday to make the announcement, stating that they are taking the decision because of a “battle for screens.” “We have found ourselves in the midst of multiple releases and a battle for screens… with advice from our well wishers in the fraternity, distributors and exhibitors we have collectively decided to push our release to the 18th of July, so that we can reach a wider audience,” stated the post.

“Thank you for the immense love you have shown for the film so far, but you’ll have to wait a little longer, and we promise you, 18th July will be worth the wait! See you in the theatres!” it added.

Earlier, talking about the film’s eventual box office clash with Maa, Sonakshi had said, “It's so cool that we've two films led by women that are releasing side by side. That's like a step in the right direction, and, amazingly, it's happening. And there's room for everyone. Both are different films, and we wish them well. It's like a good, healthy competition (between the two films).”

Nikita Roy also stars Arjun Rampal, Paresh Rawal, and Suhail Nayyar in pivotal roles.