Filmmaker Aanand L Rai has finally addressed the rumours surrounding Tanu Weds Manu 3 and made one thing clear: the popular romantic comedy franchise cannot continue without its original lead actors, Kangana Ranaut and R Madhavan. His statement has brought relief to fans who have been waiting to see the beloved on-screen couple return.
Earlier, reports suggested that the third instalment might feature a fresh cast and follow a completely new storyline. However, Aanand L Rai has now put those speculations to rest, confirming that Kangana and Madhavan remain an important part of the franchise.
Aanand L Rai Says Madhavan and Kangana Are Essential to the Franchise
Speaking to PTI in Mumbai, the filmmaker made it clear that a Tanu Weds Manu film without Madhavan would not feel right. He said, “Tanu Weds Manu won’t be possible without Madhavan. So, whenever you will see any Tanu Weds Manu, whether three or four or five, it will be with Madhavan and Kangana.”
His statement suggests that the original actors are central to the identity of the franchise, regardless of how many instalments the makers eventually plan. While the director has not revealed a release date or confirmed when the third film will go on floors, his comments have renewed interest in the possibility of reuniting the original cast.
Why Fans Love the Tanu Weds Manu Franchise
Released in 2011, Tanu Weds Manu introduced audiences to the unusual love story of Manu, an NRI who falls for Tanu, a woman whose heart belongs to someone else. R Madhavan played Manu, while Kangana Ranaut brought Tanu’s unpredictable and lively personality to life.
The film also featured Jimmy Sheirgill, Swara Bhasker, Deepak Dobriyal and Eijaz Khan in important roles. Its humour, memorable characters and relatable relationship drama helped it connect with audiences. Made on a reported budget of ₹17 crore, the film earned around ₹56 crore at the box office.
The success continued with Tanu Weds Manu Returns, which arrived in 2015. Kangana took on dual roles in the sequel, showcasing two very different characters and earning widespread appreciation for her performance. The film went on to collect more than ₹250 crore worldwide, becoming one of the biggest commercial successes led by a female star in Hindi cinema.
Given the popularity of both films, the possibility of a third instalment has remained a topic of discussion among fans for years.
Aanand L Rai Shares Advice for Filmmakers Following Trends
During the same interaction, Aanand L Rai also spoke about the tendency of filmmakers to follow popular trends in Bollywood. He described it as a natural human reaction but stressed that creators should understand their strengths rather than blindly imitate what is working for others.
According to the filmmaker, it is important for directors to recognise the kind of stories and cinematic worlds in which they can perform best. While repeating the same formula is not ideal, he believes filmmakers should also understand what makes their work distinctive.
His comments highlight the importance of finding a balance between experimenting with new ideas and staying true to one’s creative identity.
What’s Next for Aanand L Rai?
Apart from his work on the Tanu Weds Manu franchise, Aanand L Rai is also associated with upcoming projects as a producer. His latest production, Nakhrewaalii, stars newcomers Ansh Duggal and Pragati Srivastava and is directed by Rahul Shanklya. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on October 30.
For now, fans of Tanu Weds Manu will have to wait for an official announcement about the third film. However, Aanand L Rai’s latest statement makes his position clear: if the franchise returns, Kangana Ranaut and R Madhavan are expected to be part of it.
