27 July 2023, Mumbai: The classic comedy film Welcome, directed by Anees Bazmee, holds a special place in Indian cinema and introduced two beloved characters – Uday Shetty and Majnu Bhai, portrayed flawlessly by Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor. With appearances in Welcome (2007) and Welcome Back (2015), the duo’s chemistry left a lasting impression on audiences. Now, according to sources from Pinkvilla, producer Firoz Nadiadwala is all set to revamp the Welcome franchise, with Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi stepping into the shoes of Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar. Akshay Kumar, who played Rajiv in the previous films, will reprise his role in the third installment.
Welcome 3 Promises a Fresh Take on Iconic Comedy
The script for the film has been finalized, and production is scheduled to commence next year, following Akshay Kumar’s completion of shooting for Jolly LLB 3 and Housefull 5. The new movie promises a fresh spin on the comedic caper, with Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi portraying the notorious gangsters, Majnu and Uday, showcasing their chemistry once again after their successful partnership as Munna and Circuit in the Munnabhai series.
Monetary Disagreements Lead to Casting Changes in Welcome
The decision for Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar’s departure from the franchise is reportedly due to monetary disagreements between the actors and the producer. Despite their absence, the Welcome series will continue with a revamped cast that brings back the charm and hilarity that fans loved in the earlier films.
Preparations Underway for Welcome 3 and Hera Pheri 3
Although the director of the new Welcome installment has not been officially announced, preparations are underway quietly at Firoz Nadiadwala’s office. Additionally, it is expected that Suniel Shetty will also join the cast of Welcome 3. Interestingly, the filmmaker had previously shot a promo for Hera Pheri 3 with Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal. An official announcement for Hera Pheri 3 is expected once all legal matters are resolved.