The much-awaited third instalment of the popular Munna Bhai franchise appears to be moving forward, with filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani bringing writer Farhad Samji on board to develop the screenplay. According to a report by Variety India, Samji is currently working on the script, which is expected to be completed shortly. The film is reportedly targeting a 2027 production start.
Samji’s involvement also brings his association with the franchise full circle. His connection with Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. dates back to the film’s early development in 2003, when he contributed the opening lines of the much-loved track ‘M Bole Toh’.
Recalling how the opportunity came his way in an earlier interview, Samji revealed that composer Anu Malik had contacted him late one evening with a request to write the opening verse for a music session scheduled for the following day. The session was to be attended by Hirani and producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
At the time, Shah Rukh Khan was reportedly being considered for the lead role. The song needed to capture the character’s street-smart vocabulary while also fitting the actor’s established screen persona. However, Sanjay Dutt eventually stepped into the shoes of Munna Bhai, with Arshad Warsi playing his loyal companion Circuit. The film went on to become a major audience favourite.
Samji’s return to the franchise comes at an important stage in the development of its third chapter. Hirani has previously spoken about the possibility of another Munna Bhai film but has consistently maintained that he would not proceed with a sequel until he was completely satisfied with the story. The filmmaker is understood to have sought a fresh creative voice for the screenplay, leading to Samji’s involvement.
The association is also a significant one for Samji, who has previously expressed admiration for Hirani and described him as an inspiration during his formative years as a writer.
The franchise began with Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. in 2003, introducing audiences to the memorable pairing of Munna and Circuit. The two characters returned in 2006 with Lage Raho Munna Bhai, which explored Gandhian philosophy through its distinctive blend of humour and social commentary.
Despite years of speculation and discussions surrounding a third film, the project has remained in development, largely because Hirani has been particular about finding the right screenplay.
With Samji now working on the script and a reported 2027 production timeline, the long-awaited return of Munna Bhai and Circuit could finally be taking shape. However, the film’s casting, plot details and official production schedule are yet to be formally announced.
