Drishyam 3 Begins Production: Ajay Devgn and Team Head to Goa for Major Shoot
The Hindi film industry’s most successful suspense thriller franchise, Drishyam, has officially entered its third chapter with Drishyam 3 going into production. Starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Shriya Saran, the film marks a significant continuation of a narrative that has consistently blended crime, morality, and psychological tension, drawing both critical appreciation and commercial success.
The production, which began with preliminary schedules in Mumbai, is now preparing to shift base to Goa, where an extensive and narratively important shooting schedule is set to commence from January 8. According to sources associated with the project, the Goa schedule will continue until the end of the month and will involve the entire principal cast.
From Mumbai to Goa: A Strategic Shift in Production
The initial phase of Drishyam 3 was shot in controlled studio environments and select locations in Mumbai, allowing the team to establish continuity and character progression. The upcoming Goa schedule is expected to focus on pivotal sequences that are central to the film’s narrative arc.
Goa has played a symbolic and narrative role in the Drishyam universe since the first installment. Its geography, coastal isolation, and quiet domestic spaces have previously served as a contrast to the intense psychological drama unfolding within the Salgaonkar household. By returning to Goa, the makers appear intent on preserving visual continuity while also expanding the narrative canvas.
Industry observers note that the decision to dedicate an entire month to the Goa schedule indicates the importance of this phase, both in terms of storytelling and scale.
Ajay Devgn Returns as Vijay Salgaonkar
At the centre of the Drishyam franchise is Ajay Devgn’s portrayal of Vijay Salgaonkar, a character that has become one of the most recognisable figures in modern Hindi cinema thrillers. Vijay’s journey — from a cable TV operator to a man navigating the consequences of an extraordinary moral dilemma — has resonated deeply with audiences.
In Drishyam 3, Devgn reprises the role with a character that has aged alongside the narrative. Sources suggest that the third installment will explore the long-term psychological and social repercussions of past decisions, rather than relying solely on plot twists.
Devgn’s restrained performance style has been a defining factor in the franchise’s success, allowing tension to build through silence, pauses, and moral ambiguity rather than overt dramatics.
Tabu and Shriya Saran: Anchors of Emotional Continuity
Tabu, who plays the formidable and determined law enforcement officer, returns to the franchise at a time when her character’s presence is expected to take on new dimensions. Known for her layered performances, Tabu has consistently elevated the franchise by bringing emotional complexity to the pursuit of justice.
Shriya Saran, portraying Vijay’s wife, continues to represent the emotional core of the family unit around which the narrative revolves. Her character’s evolution from fear and uncertainty to resilience has mirrored the franchise’s shift from a crime thriller to a deeper exploration of familial bonds under pressure.
The presence of the original cast underscores the makers’ intention to retain narrative consistency and emotional authenticity.
Jaideep Ahlawat Joins the Cast
One of the most talked-about developments in Drishyam 3 is the induction of Jaideep Ahlawat into the cast. Widely regarded as one of the most intense performers of his generation, Ahlawat’s inclusion has generated considerable interest regarding the role he will play in the unfolding story.
While details about his character remain undisclosed, industry speculation suggests that his role may introduce a new investigative or psychological dimension to the narrative, potentially altering the power dynamics that have defined the series so far.
Ahlawat’s reputation for portraying morally complex characters aligns closely with the thematic framework of Drishyam, making his casting a strategic creative decision.
Akshaye Khanna’s Exit and Production Realignment
The production of Drishyam 3 also witnessed an unexpected development when Akshaye Khanna exited the project shortly before shooting commenced. According to producer Kumar Mangat, the departure occurred after contractual agreements had been signed, citing issues related to look and remuneration.
Director Abhishek Pathak later clarified that the exit took place just days before the film went on floors, despite extensive preparations, including costume trials and script narration. While the situation posed logistical challenges, the production team moved swiftly to prevent delays.
Industry insiders point out that such changes, though disruptive, are not uncommon in large-scale productions and that the seamless transition reflects the project’s strong organisational structure.
Abhishek Pathak’s Vision for the Third Installment
Director Abhishek Pathak, who successfully helmed Drishyam 2, returns to guide the franchise into its third phase. Pathak’s approach has been characterised by a focus on emotional realism and narrative discipline, avoiding unnecessary spectacle in favour of psychological tension.
In interviews, Pathak has emphasised that Drishyam 3 will not merely attempt to replicate the suspense of its predecessors but will explore the cumulative impact of past actions. This approach positions the film as a continuation rather than a repetition.
Observers note that this creative direction aligns with changing audience preferences, which increasingly favour layered storytelling over formulaic thrillers.
Legacy of the Drishyam Franchise
Originally a Malayalam film directed by Jeethu Joseph, Drishyam has been remade in multiple languages, each adaptation achieving significant success. The Hindi versions, however, have carved out a distinct identity, benefiting from strong performances and careful localisation.
Both Drishyam (2015) and Drishyam 2 (2022) performed well at the box office and on streaming platforms, reinforcing the franchise’s longevity. The films have often been cited in discussions on how mainstream cinema can balance commercial appeal with intelligent storytelling.
Drishyam 3 arrives at a time when franchise fatigue is a growing concern in the industry, making narrative innovation crucial to sustaining audience interest.
Goa Schedule: Logistical and Creative Significance
The upcoming Goa schedule is not only creatively important but also logistically complex. Filming in Goa requires coordination with local authorities, careful management of public spaces, and adherence to environmental guidelines.
Production sources indicate that several indoor and outdoor locations have been secured, suggesting a mix of intimate domestic scenes and broader visual sequences. The decision to shoot extensively on location, rather than relying on sets, reflects a commitment to realism.
Release Timeline and Industry Expectations
The makers have officially announced October 2, 2026, as the release date for Drishyam 3. The date coincides with a national holiday window, traditionally favourable for content-driven films.
Trade analysts believe that the franchise’s established audience base, combined with the curiosity surrounding new cast additions, positions the film strongly ahead of its release. However, expectations will be high, given the critical and commercial benchmarks set by the previous installments.
