Our Bureau
Chennai
Kamal Haasan-starrer Indian 3 is officially back on track, with production house Lyca Productions confirming the revival of the long-delayed film and renewed work on the third instalment of the franchise. The makers are reportedly targeting a Pongal 2027 release, although an official release date is yet to be announced.
Directed by S Shankar, the film had faced uncertainty following the underwhelming box-office performance of Indian 2, released in 2024. Nearly two years after doubts emerged over the future of the project, the production house has signalled its commitment to completing the film. According to reports, approximately 75% of the film had already been shot alongside its predecessor.
The makers announced the revival through promotional posters featuring the tagline “Senapathy is back with zero tolerance. The resurgence begins”, signalling the return of Haasan’s iconic character. Post-production work has also commenced, according to reports.
Unlike a conventional sequel, Indian 3 is expected to explore the backstory of Senapathy and his family, focusing on his father, Veerasekaran Balram, a freedom fighter played by Haasan. The story was teased towards the end of Indian 2, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the character’s past.
Several actors from the previous film are expected to return, including Siddharth, Kajal Aggarwal, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Bobby Simha and SJ Suryah. Anirudh Ravichander will compose the music, while Ravi Varman is the cinematographer. The film is produced by Subaskaran and GKM Tamil Kumaran under the Lyca Productions banner.
The franchise began with Indian in 1996, which featured Haasan in dual roles and centred on a former freedom fighter’s fight against corruption. The sequel arrived 28 years later but failed to match expectations.
With Indian 3 moving forward, the makers will be looking to revive audience interest in the franchise.