The highly anticipated third installment of the Drishyam franchise is shaping up to be very different from its Malayalam counterpart. Director Abhishek Pathak has now confirmed that the Hindi adaptation starring Ajay Devgn will focus more on suspense and thriller elements rather than emotional family drama.
With the film currently in post-production and targeting an October 2, 2026 release, excitement around the franchise has already started building among fans.
Abhishek Pathak Explains Difference Between Hindi And Malayalam Versions
Speaking about the creative approach for the upcoming film, Abhishek Pathak revealed that the Hindi version of Drishyam 3 will carry a completely different tone from the Malayalam original.
According to the filmmaker, while Jeethu Joseph’s Malayalam films are deeply rooted in emotional and family-driven storytelling, the Hindi adaptation is being designed as a “family thriller.”
Pathak explained that audiences will notice the tonal difference as soon as the promotional campaign begins.
The filmmaker hinted that the trailer itself will showcase how distinct the worlds of the two versions are, despite originating from the same core storyline.
The decision reportedly comes after the success of Drishyam 2 Hindi, which amplified suspense, pacing, and interrogation sequences to appeal to wider pan-India audiences.
#Drishyam3 Hindi Version To Be A ‘Family Thriller’ Unlike Malayalam’s Drama Focus, Confirms Director Abhishek Pathak; #AjayDevgn Starrer In Post-Production For October 2, 2026 Release.https://t.co/KYWEnX8Gek
— CINEINFINITY (@cine_infinity) May 11, 2026
Drishyam 3 Currently In Post-Production
The film has already completed principal photography and is now deep into post-production work.
Reports suggest that shooting wrapped in July 2026 after an extensive 70-day schedule across Mumbai, Goa, and Tihri in Uttarakhand.
The technical team is currently working on visual effects, background score, and sound design to enhance the thriller experience.
Sources claim Pathak and editor Sandeep Francis are aiming for a tightly packed runtime of around 2 hours and 20 minutes.
The makers have officially locked October 2, 2026, for release, strategically utilizing the Gandhi Jayanti holiday weekend for a strong box office opening.
As of now, no major Hindi film has been announced for the same release window, giving Drishyam 3 a potentially clear run in theatres.
So, the plan is set. #Drishyam3 (Malayalam) – FDFS – May 21, 2026#Drishyam3 (Hindi) – FDFS – October 2, 2026
Love this franchise. One of it’s kind with two of the best actors of India – #Mohanlal sir, and #AjayDevgn sir! https://t.co/8Xl2nh9Aoe
— Himesh (@HimeshMankad) May 11, 2026
Hindi Version To Feature Darker And Faster Narrative
The Hindi adaptations of Drishyam have gradually evolved into a more suspense-heavy cinematic experience compared to the Malayalam originals.
According to reports, writer Aamil Keeyan Khan and Abhishek Pathak have significantly reworked several portions of the script to increase tension and pace.
While the emotional bond of the Salgaonkar family will remain central to the story, the upcoming film is expected to lean heavily into cat-and-mouse investigations, chase sequences, and psychological suspense.
Insiders suggest the makers have intentionally crafted the Hindi version as a more intense thriller experience for mainstream audiences.
Unlike Drishyam 2, which closely followed the Malayalam film, Drishyam 3 Hindi is reportedly expected to take greater creative liberties.
Ajay Devgn, Tabu And Akshaye Khanna Return
Ajay Devgn will once again reprise his iconic role as Vijay Salgaonkar, the ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances.
Tabu is returning as IG Meera Deshmukh, while Akshaye Khanna is reportedly set to receive an expanded role in the third installment.
The film also stars Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta, and Mrunal Jadhav as members of the Salgaonkar family.
Meanwhile, the Malayalam version starring Mohanlal is also currently in development under Jeethu Joseph.
Reports suggest the Malayalam film will focus more on the psychological and emotional impact of the events on Georgekutty and his family, creating a very different cinematic experience from the Hindi adaptation.
Biggest Drishyam Film Yet
Drishyam 3 is reportedly being mounted on a budget of nearly Rs 150 crore, making it the most expensive film in the franchise so far.
A large portion of the budget has reportedly gone into elaborate chase sequences, large-scale locations, and an ambitious real-time rain climax sequence.
The marketing campaign for the film is expected to begin by August 2026, with Panorama Studios and Viacom18 planning a massive promotional push.
Following the success of Singham Again and the franchise’s massive popularity, trade analysts believe Drishyam 3 could become one of the biggest thriller releases of 2026.
If Abhishek Pathak successfully delivers on his promise of creating a gripping “family thriller,” the film could redefine how regional remakes are adapted for Hindi audiences.
