The beloved ‘Aadu’ film series is set for its grand conclusion with ‘Aadu 3: One Last Ride’, releasing in two parts. Director Midhun Manuel Thomas confirmed the finale, explaining the narrative’s need for extensive world-building across timelines. The first part arrives March 19, 2026, promising an epic end to Shaji Pappan’s saga.

The popular Malayalam film franchise ‘Aadu’ is gearing up for its grand finale. Director Midhun Manuel Thomas confirmed that the series will conclude with ‘Aadu 3’ Part 2. The third installment, titled ‘Aadu 3: One Last Ride’, will release in two parts. The first part is scheduled to hit theatres on March 19, 2026, locking horns with Bollywood’s ‘Dhurandhar Part 2’.

Midhun Manuel Thomas confirms finale

In a recent interview with Club FM, the director spoke about the upcoming film’s structure. He explained that the story required more space and time to unfold. The ‘Aadu’ series began with Aadu in 2015 and has since grown into a cult favourite among Malayalam cinema audiences.

Director explains why Aadu 3 is split into two parts

Speaking about the storytelling approach, Midhun Manuel Thomas revealed that the film’s narrative demanded a larger canvas. According to him, the plot unfolds across different timelines.He said, “Aadu 3 was never planned as a single-part film. That decision was made during the writing stage itself. The story requires extensive world-building, which takes time. Since the narrative unfolds across two timelines, we needed enough space to establish the world properly. Up to a certain point, the story will be told in Part 1, which already runs for two hours and 47 minutes.”The filmmaker added that the remaining portions of the story will be concluded in the second part.He explained, “The remaining portions of the story will be completed in the second part, and the epic conclusion of Aadu will be made if the audience supports it.”

Franchise to end with ‘Aadu 3’ part 2

While the first part sets the stage, the director confirmed that the second part will be the franchise’s grand conclusion. Midhun made it clear that the story of the central characters will end with the second installment of Aadu 3.He said, “I am ending the franchise with Aadu 3 Part 2. All the characters will be there.” The director’s statement confirms that the long-running storyline of Shaji Pappan and his gang will finally reach its climax with the upcoming sequel.

Possibility of spinoffs remains open

Even though the main story will conclude with Aadu 3 Part 2, Midhun Manuel Thomas did not rule out expanding the universe. He hinted that future projects could explore spinoffs centred around characters from the franchise. The filmmaker said, “The franchise can always be revived by someone else later, and spinoffs can also be created by other filmmakers.”However, he also noted that such decisions would ultimately depend on the production house.

‘Sulthaan’ song released

Meanwhile, the makers recently released the first video song from the film titled ‘Sulthaan.’ The song features actress Vedhika performing a lively dance number and actor Vinayakan also appears in the sequence with a striking Sultan-style look from another timeline. Apart from Jayasurya, the film boasts a large ensemble cast. The lineup includes Vijay Babu, Sunny Wayne, Saiju Kurup, Dharmajan Bolgatty, Harikrishnan, and Bhagath Manuel in key roles.