Rajkummar Rao Drops Major Franchise Update, Teases New Ghost After 'Sirkata' Ahead of Next Year's Shoot

Bollywood star Rajkummar Rao has delivered the news horror-comedy fans have been eagerly waiting for. Following the phenomenal box-office success and cultural phenomenon of Stree 2, the acclaimed actor has officially confirmed that 'Stree 3' is locked in and moving forward. Promising a gripping narrative that goes beyond merely capitalizing on franchise popularity, Rao revealed that production and filming are slated to kick off next year, setting the stage for 'Vicky' and the gang to face an all-new terrifying entity following the haunting legacy of 'Sirkata'.

'Stree 3' Officially Confirmed: Shooting to Begin Next Year

Speaking with the Jagran News Network in Mumbai, Rajkummar Rao provided exciting insights into the much-anticipated third installment of the Maddock Supernatural Universe:

• No Rushed Sequels: Addressing the timeline, Rao assured fans that the makers are taking their time crafting a powerful script. "It is definitely coming. The plan is to start shooting next year. Work on the story is underway. It is not that we are bringing the film just for the sake of bringing it," he stated.

• Expanding the Horror-Comedy Universe: After vanquishing 'Sirkata' in the previous chapter, audiences can expect a fresh, spine-chilling yet hilarious adversary to test the residents of Chanderi.

Stepping Into Legendary Shoes: 'Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story'

Apart from the supernatural franchise, Rao is gearing up for diverse and compelling cinematic roles, including an upcoming sports biopic:

• Portraying the Prince of Calcutta: Rao is set to star in Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story, a biopic chronicling the life of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.

• Deep Personal Research: Sharing his experience, Rao noted, "We have talked a lot, the film was shot at his house, the film was also shot at Eden Gardens Stadium. I spent a lot of time with him in Kolkata. He opened up his entire life to me. He is a legend."

• Upcoming Releases: Fans will also see the actor headlining gritty projects like the upcoming film Prahaar.

Being a 'Producer's Actor': Keeping Crew Expenses Lean

Known for his grounded approach to filmmaking, Rao opened up about his minimalist philosophy on film sets:

• Compact Team Size: Unlike stars who travel with massive entourages, Rao maintains a tight-knit team of just four people—two for hair and makeup, one personal assistant, and one security personnel—a practice he has maintained for five years.

• Respecting Producer Budgets: Explaining his philosophy, Rao remarked, "I believe an actor should be the producer's actor... Why put the burden on the producer?"