Raktanchal Season 3 update: Lucknow becomes new battleground for gritty saga of 'no love, just revenge'

The third season of the OTT series Raktanchal is returning after two successful seasons that established a grim underworld narrative. As per the latest report, the production has formally moved from the well-known ganglands of the Chunar and Varanasi regions to the capital of Uttar Pradesh's high-stakes political corridors. Various urban vistas across Lucknow, as well as Malihabad and Barabanki, are part of the crew's busy filming schedule at the moment.

How is the harsh winter impacting the visual style of Raktanchal?

HT City reported that the resilience of the production in the face of adverse weather conditions has been a defining feature. As the squad progresses through this harsh winter, they have seen thick fog and precipitous drops in daytime temperatures. Rather than being considered a logistical hurdle, the makers saw the severe weather as an artistic opportunity; it gives the cinematography a raw, unfiltered quality that complements the show's gloomy themes.

Ritam Srivastav, who directed the 2023 heist comedy Rafuchakkar in addition to the series, went on to say that the shift in setting represents a major development in the plot. He told the entertainment portal that they relocated to the state capital because vengeance is more powerful and politics gets involved, explaining the change. Returning to the original intent—revenge—is their goal this time around. He added, "No love angle, no emotions, just action!"

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How will the timeline transition in the upcoming season of Raktanchal?

This season's storyline is shaping up to take the protagonists' (Kranti Prakash Jha and Nikitin Dheer) feud to new, more deliberate and murderous heights. Unlike earlier seasons stuck in the '80s and '90s, the timeline is now moving forward. After the 1980s and 1990s, the series will transition into the 2000s, according to Srivastav.

Changes in personal dynamics are another consequence of this time leap. The series will drastically reduce the protagonist's romance subplot with Soundarya Sharma's character, allowing the intense political background to become the main focus. "We are keeping it just very raw with politics in the backdrop. So, this time we will not be having any love angle, but we will keep the character alive, and it will surely find mention in the series," the filmmaker explained, elaborating on this direction.

Who are the new and returning cast in Raktanchal?

The cast remains a blend of seasoned performers and fresh faces. Karan Patel, who portrays a police officer, Vikram Kochhar, Mahie Gill, and Aditya Kumar are all deep into the action sequences. A notable addition to this season is Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai actor Rajesh Kumar, recognised for his recent work in Saiyaara, Nishaanchi, and Freedom at Midnight.

According to line producer Aroon Singh Dicky, filming started on December 14, 2025, and will go until February 2026. After the present leg of production is complete, the plan is to move beyond the capital. After the big shoot in Lucknow, Srivastav said they would proceed to Varanasi for a few days and have also settled on a few spots in Prayagraj.

Raktanchal FAQs:

Q: Where is Raktanchal Season 3 being filmed?

A: The third season of Raktanchal is being filmed across Lucknow, including locations in Malihabad and Barabanki. Production is also scheduled to move to Varanasi and Prayagraj to maintain the show's authentic Uttar Pradesh atmosphere.

Q: Who is in the cast of Raktanchal Season 3?

A: Raktanchal Season 3 stars Kranti Prakash Jha and Nikitin Dheer returning as arch-rivals. Other key cast members include Karan Patel (playing a police officer), Vikram Kochhar, Mahie Gill, and Aditya Kumar. A major new addition this season is actor Rajesh Kumar.

Q: Will Soundarya Sharma be in Raktanchal Season 3?

A: Yes, Soundarya Sharma’s character will remain part of Raktanchal Season 3, but her romantic storyline with the protagonist has been scaled back.