It's Sunny Deol vs Akshay Kumar at the box office in January 2016

Sunny Deol and Akshay Kumar

If the latest buzz doing the industry rounds is to be believed, Sunny Deol's 'Ghayal Once Again' may clash with Akshay Kumar's 'Airlift' in January 2016.

Earlier, Sunny, who was keen to release the sequel to his 1990 blockbuster 'Ghayal' during the festive season, was up against Salman Khan's 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'. (Read the full story) However, the actor has pushed the release of his directorial venture forward.

Now there is speculation that Sunny Deol's 'Ghayal Once Again' and Akshay Kumar's 'Airlift' will clash on January 22, 2016.

Sunny Deol and Akshay Kumar

Says a source, "Usually filmmakers steer clear from releasing their projects in the first half of January. There is this belief that films do not do well as people are still in the New Year and holiday mode. So post January 15 is considered a safer bet."

The source adds, "Sunny was keen that his film be a festive release, but the special effects is taking time. With lots of films lined up till December, he thinks January might be a better option."

Also read: Small-budget films no longer hesitant to clash with Bollywood blockbusters

The first look of 'Ghayal Once Again' is being attached to the Shahid Kapoor-Alia Bhatt starrer 'Shaandaar' that releases later this month. The second promo will be out during Diwali with Salman Khan's 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'.

The film's spokesperson states, "An official announcement will be made shortly about the release date of 'Ghayal Once Again'. It will be in the second half of January."