Veteran actor Prakash Raj has officially joined the cast of the highly anticipated thriller Drishyam 3, adding fresh intrigue to one of Bollywood’s most awaited films of the year. The third instalment of the hit franchise will see the return of Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Shriya Saran, with filming already underway ahead of its scheduled worldwide release on October 2, 2026, a date deeply tied to the series’ narrative legacy.
Excitement Builds for Franchise Finale
Drishyam 3 continues the story of Vijay Salgaonkar, the everyman father who uses his wits to protect his family, a character made iconic by Ajay Devgn. The franchise’s previous two films garnered widespread acclaim and strong box office success, with Drishyam 2 further solidifying its place as a staple of the family‑thriller genre.
The confirmed return of Devgn, Tabu, and Shriya Saran has already excited fans, and the addition of Prakash Raj, known for his powerful screen presence and range, has heightened anticipation even more. Raj’s involvement was confirmed by industry insiders, who said he was drawn to the script and the opportunity offered by the franchise.
A Character Shrouded in Mystery
While Prakash Raj’s exact role remains undisclosed, early reports suggest that he will not be portraying a police officer, as some rumours had hinted. Instead, he is expected to play a unique character crafted specifically for this chapter of the story, one that promises to deepen the film’s narrative complexity and inject fresh energy into the ensemble.
The film is helmed by Abhishek Pathak, who also co‑wrote the script. Pathak has indicated that the story picks up directly from the events of Drishyam 2, continuing the high‑stakes battle between Salgaonkar and the law, now layered with new twists and intensified personal conflict.
Cast Changes and Newer Additions
Drishyam 3 had earlier seen changes in its cast lineup, with Drishyam 2 actor Akshaye Khanna reportedly exiting the project amid scheduling and creative disagreements, a development that sparked considerable discussion among fans and industry observers, though the makers have positioned new talent like Jaideep Ahlawat in expanded roles written expressly for the sequel.
Despite the reshuffle, the ensemble remains strong, with familiar faces returning to their roles, including Rajat Kapoor alongside Devgn, Tabu, and Saran. Their continued presence underscores the franchise’s commitment to character continuity, while new additions like Prakash Raj and Ahlawat hint at broader narrative arcs being explored in the third chapter.
A Date With Destiny: October 2, 2026
The decision to release Drishyam 3 on October 2, 2026, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, carries symbolic weight. In the original film, October 2 plays a pivotal role in Vijay’s meticulously crafted alibi, making the date a cultural touchstone among fans and leading to annual social media tributes around “Drishyam Day.”
With production in full swing across locations and a mix of seasoned actors and new blood, Drishyam 3 is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most talked‑about releases. Audiences and critics alike are watching closely to see how the saga of Vijay Salgaonkar reaches its much‑anticipated finale.
