The highly anticipated third installment of the Drishyam franchise has stirred fresh excitement with a major casting update: Jaideep Ahlawat has officially joined the film, starring alongside Ajay Devgn and Tabu. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in this gripping Bollywood thriller series, key developments in casting, production schedules, and behind‑the‑scenes changes are shaping Drishyam 3 into one of the most talked‑about projects in Hindi cinema for 2026.
A New Face in the Drishyam Universe
Jaideep Ahlawat’s entry into Drishyam 3 marks a significant addition to the star‑studded ensemble. Known for his intense and versatile performances across film and web series, Ahlawat’s participation promises to bring fresh energy and depth to the narrative. While there has been speculation about whether he is stepping into a previously intended role or playing an entirely new character, director Abhishek Pathak has clarified that Ahlawat is not simply replacing another actor but portraying a new role crafted specifically for him.
This move follows recent reports that actor Akshaye Khanna, initially associated with the project, exited the film due to disputes with the production. The situation around Khanna’s departure has involved public controversy, including disagreements over creative and contractual elements and subsequent legal tensions. Despite this, the filmmakers have navigated the change decisively, incorporating Ahlawat’s role to advance the story in an intriguing direction.
Continuing the Saga of Vijay Salgaonkar
At the heart of Drishyam 3 is the return of Ajay Devgn as Vijay Salgaonkar, the resourceful and cunning protagonist who has captivated audiences since the franchise’s inception. Devgn’s portrayal of the Goa‑based family man, driven to extreme lengths to protect his loved ones, is the emotional core of the series. Tabu is also confirmed to be back, reprising her compelling role as IG Meera Deshmukh, the driven and relentless investigator whose complex dynamic with Devgn’s character has defined much of the franchise’s tension.
Alongside Devgn and Tabu, familiar faces such as Shriya Saran and Rajat Kapoor are returning, ensuring continuity in the central narrative while new elements broaden the canvas. The ensemble approach keeps the emotional stakes high and maintains the franchise’s blend of mystery, drama, and psychological intensity.
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Production and Release Timeline
Filming for Drishyam 3 is set to begin in early January 2026, with a significant schedule planned in Goa, where the franchise’s story has deep roots. The Goa schedule is expected to run through the early part of the year, capturing key sequences that will propel the plot forward.
Director and writers have kept plot details tightly under wraps, but the expectation is that the film will explore new twists in Vijay’s ongoing conflict with law enforcement, possibly introducing fresh challenges that test his cleverness and resilience. The return of core cast members underscores the continuity of the narrative, while Ahlawat’s role hints at unexpected developments that could redefine the stakes.
Drishyam 3 is slated for a theatrical release on October 2, 2026, a date that holds symbolic significance within the franchise and is often referred to by fans as “Drishyam Day.” This strategic date choice ties back to pivotal moments in earlier chapters and reinforces the film’s emotional and thematic continuity.
Handling Change and Expectations
The transition in casting and production has not been without controversy. The industry has closely watched the developments around Akshaye Khanna’s departure, with public comments from both producers and the director offering varying perspectives. However, the creative team’s swift adjustments signal a commitment to keeping the project on track and preserving its narrative strength.
For audiences, the introduction of Jaideep Ahlawat alongside established leads promises a blend of familiar emotional arcs and fresh character dynamics. Ahlawat’s reputation for compelling performances suggests his role could be integral to pushing the boundaries of the Drishyam universe, offering fans something compellingly new while staying grounded in the franchise’s signature suspense.
What to Expect Next
As Drishyam 3 moves into production, anticipation is building for teasers, promotional material, and more detailed insights into the plot and characters. Audiences can look forward to behind‑the‑scenes glimpses, interviews with the cast and crew, and eventual marketing leading up to the October 2026 release.
With its blend of emotional depth, strategic storytelling, and strong performances, Drishyam 3 is shaping up to be a defining cinematic event in 2026 — one that honors its roots while boldly expanding the franchise’s narrative horizon.
