Aadu 3 movie 2026: The Jayasurya-led film is helmed by Midhun Manuel Thomas. From the release date to the fun plot and ensemble cast, here’s everything about the upcoming Malayalam comedy film.

Last Updated: 09.36 AM, Mar 17, 2026
Shaji Pappan and the gang are back! Malayalam actor Jayasurya returns with the third installment of his popular comedy franchise. Titled Aadu 3: One Last Ride Part 1, the film is helmed by Midhun Manuel Thomas. From the release date to the fun plot and ensemble cast, here’s everything you need to know about Jayasurya’s upcoming comedy film.

Aadu 3: One Last Ride Part 1 is releasing on March 19, 2026. The Jayasurya-starrer is the only Malayalam film to hit theatres on the coming Thursday, which will also see the big release of the Hindi spy thriller Dhurandhar 2. Malayalam actor-filmmaker Dhyan Sreenivasan’s movie Bhishmar will release on March 20.
The third installment of the popular Aadu franchise will once again track the hilarious misadventures of Shaji Pappan and his buddies. The makers have said that part 3 will pick up from where Aadu 2 ended. However, the film, penned by Midhun Manuel Thomas, will also feature two timelines. Though the characters will be the same, they will be seen in different avatars in a past era of monarchy.
Also read: Aadu franchise to end with Part 2 epic conclusion, but director does not rule out spinoffs

Aadu 3 will once again be led by Jayasurya, who returns as Shaji Pappan. But he will be seen as Maharaja Aadithyan in the past timeline. Vinayakan too will be back as Dude, and appear as Tipu Sultan in the past. Vijay Babu will be seen as Sarbath Shameer and an architect in the past, while Saiju Kurup will play Arakkal Abu and the Maharaja’s commander-in-chief. Sunny Wayne, Dharmajan Bolgatty, Vijay Babu, Bhagath Manuel and Harikrishnan form the rest of the ensemble cast.
The upcoming film is written and directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas. Akhil George handles cinematography, while Lijo Paul is the editor. Shaan Rahman is the music composer, while Dawn Vincent has contributed background score.

Aadu 3 is yet to announce an OTT partner but is expected to drop on a popular platform after it completes its theatrical run. The first part Aadu is streaming on JioHotstar, while Aadu 2 is available on YouTube.