FICCI Frames 2026 revealed exciting updates as Vicky Kaushal's ambitious Mahavatar is set to begin filming in January 2027, while Stree 3 eyes a 2028 release on Independence Day or Christmas. Producer Dinesh Vijan and actor Rajkummar Rao shared insights on the franchise's success and Amar Kaushik's integral role in its journey.
A panel on Day 2 of FICCI Frames 2026 saw Dinesh Vijan, the producer of the blockbuster Stree films, discuss the franchise's future alongside Rajkummar Rao. While Rao shared his sentiments about the franchise and working with director Amar Kaushik, Vijan hinted at what the audiences can expect from it and also revealed the film's release date.
The producer also announced that the Vicky-Kaushal-starrer Mahavatar, also directed by Kaushik, will go on floors in January next year.
Rao began by speaking about working with Kaushik, who has directed all instalments of Stree. "Stree (2018) started as an independent small-budget film. But we all had great faith in the story and in Amar Kaushik. He's hilarious. He's like us. So, we all were like laundas on the set!," said Rao, adding that there was great banter between them while shooting the film. "That camaraderie and energy is very much visible on screen."
He then proceeded to share something he claimed he hasn't until now. "When (the film) started collecting very well and earned ₹70-75 crores, Amar was very nervous. He asked, 'Film kuch zyada nahin kama rahi hai?'! (Isn't the film earning a little too much?) I said, 'Arre, acchhi baat hai na?' (Isn't it a good thing?). He replied, 'Arre nahin. Pehli film itna business kar rahi hai?' (But, how is the first film doing so much business?)."
Asked how Kaushik reacted to the sequel's success, Rao revealed, "He was like 'Aur kamaye' (we'll earn more). In between, he delivered Bala (2019) and Bhediya (2022). As a result, he became a producer's friend."
"Amar Kaushik is the most integral part of Stree and the entire horror comedy franchise," added Vijan, revealing that he directs Maddock's most ambitious film in January, Mahavatar, which is Bhagwan Parshuram's story. "He'll finish that in June and end of next year, we go on floors with Stree 3. It'll arrive in cinemas in 2028."
When it came to what audiences can expect from Stree 3, Vijan told them to clear their minds of set expectations. "Everything you have loved about it, you'll get. However, where it starts and where it ends will be a complete revelation. So, it might be a nice Independence Day or Christmas Day release in 2028," he concluded.