25 July,2026 07:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Yami Gautam. Pic via Instagram
The mystery-filled world of Kahaani is set to return with a new chapter. According to Pinkvilla, Yami Gautam has been roped in to headline Kahaani 3, with filmmaker Sujoy Ghosh making a comeback as the director. The film is currently in the pre-production stage, with the team working on various aspects before locking the shooting schedule.
Unlike the first two films that revolved around Vidya Balan's character, Kahaani 3 will reportedly introduce an entirely new story set within the same universe. The makers are not planning a direct continuation but are looking to expand the franchise while maintaining the elements that made it popular, suspense, mystery and a strong female-led narrative.
A source told Pinkvilla, "Kahaani 3 is a new story altogether. The idea is to take the franchise forward while retaining the essence of the world that audiences have loved. Yami Gautam is coming on board as the lead, and the character has a very strong arc. The film is still in the pre-production stage, and the team is working on the timelines for the shoot."
The first two instalments of the franchise became known for their gripping narratives, unexpected twists and powerful performances. Released in 2012, Kahaani emerged as a major critical and commercial success, with Vidya Balan's portrayal of a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband becoming one of Hindi cinema's most memorable performances. The sequel, Kahaani 2: Durga Rani Singh, continued the franchise's focus on complex characters and emotional storytelling.
With Sujoy Ghosh returning behind the camera, expectations around the third instalment have increased. The filmmaker, known for creating layered thrillers with strong character arcs, is expected to bring a fresh perspective while preserving the tone of the franchise.
The source further added that Ghosh is closely involved in shaping the film's direction and ensuring that the new instalment feels different yet connected to the original world. "Sujoy has a very clear vision for the Kahaani world. He is working closely with the team to ensure that the third film feels fresh but still carries the soul of the franchise," the source said.
For Yami Gautam, the project marks another opportunity to lead a major female-driven thriller after films like A Thursday and Article 370. With a new protagonist and Sujoy Ghosh returning to the franchise he created, Kahaani 3 is already generating buzz among fans of Hindi thrillers.
