‘Munna Bhai 3’ Script Was Ready 15 Years Ago, Reveals Arshad Warsi; Actor Explains Why the Film Got Stuck

Mumbai: Ever since the success of Lage Raho Munna Bhai in 2006, fans have been eagerly waiting for the third installment of the iconic franchise. Now, actor Arshad Warsi has finally shed light on why ‘Munna Bhai 3’ has remained stalled for nearly two decades, revealing that the story for the film was ready almost 15 years ago.

Arshad Warsi, who rose to immense popularity as Circuit alongside Sanjay Dutt’s Munna Bhai in Munna Bhai MBBS (2003), recently spoke about the long-delayed sequel in an interview with The Lallantop. He disclosed that the proposed third film, tentatively titled ‘Munna Bhai Chale America’, ran into trouble primarily due to concerns over originality.

Similarity with Shah Rukh Khan’s Film

According to Warsi, the storyline of Munna Bhai Chale America bore a striking resemblance to Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘My Name Is Khan’ (2010).
“From what I know, the story turned out to be quite similar to My Name Is Khan. In this film too, Munna and Circuit end up meeting the President of the United States,” Warsi explained.

He added that director Rajkumar Hirani is extremely particular about originality and avoids repeating themes that may remind audiences of other films.

Hirani’s Commitment to Original Storytelling

Highlighting Hirani’s creative integrity, Warsi shared an anecdote from the making of PK (2014). He said that when Hirani came to know about Oh My God! (2012), he rewrote the second half of PK three times to ensure that it did not feel similar.
“Hirani sir doesn’t like his work to resemble any other film,” Warsi noted.

Three Scripts Ready for ‘Munna Bhai 3’

Despite the long wait, Warsi brought a ray of hope for fans. He revealed that Rajkumar Hirani currently has three different scripts ready for the third Munna Bhai film. According to the actor, all three scripts are exceptionally strong and far superior to most films being made today. However, the final decision on which one to take forward is still pending.

Arshad Warsi Almost Rejected the Role of Circuit

In an interesting revelation, Warsi also admitted that he initially did not want to play Circuit. At the time, he was reluctant to take up what he considered a “small role,” fearing it might harm his career. He was on his way to producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s office to decline the film when fate intervened.

Warsi recalled meeting tarot card reader Ritambhara Diwan, who strongly advised him to accept the role, confidently predicting that the film would be a success. She also foresaw that the female lead would be changed—a prediction that soon came true when Tabu exited the film due to date issues and Gracy Singh was cast instead.

Lesser-Known Trivia

Adding another interesting detail, Warsi revealed that Circuit’s original name in the script was ‘Khujli’, a name that reminded him of characters often played by the late Kader Khan.

As fans continue to wait for Munna Bhai 3, Arshad Warsi’s revelations have reignited hope that Munna and Circuit may someday return to the big screen—this time with a story that lives up to the legacy of the beloved franchise.