The planned sequel to Malamaal Weekly is moving forward without two key names from the original film. Director Priyadarshan and lead actor Riteish Deshmukh have opted out of Malamaal Weekly 2, marking a major change for the follow-up to the 2006 comedy.
Priyadarshan confirmed his decision to Variety India, saying, “I am not doing it. I have decided not to do any sequel.” The filmmaker’s statement makes clear that he will not be returning to direct the next instalment or take the franchise forward.
Riteish Deshmukh, who played one of the central characters in the original film, is also no longer part of the project, according to the report. The sequel will instead move ahead with a new creative team and a different cast.
Amit Joshi Takes Over as Director
Filmmaker Amit Joshi has been brought on board to direct Malamaal Weekly 2. Joshi co-directed Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, the Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon-starrer romantic comedy.
The sequel is expected to feature a fresh storyline while retaining the small-town setting, financial temptation and comic misunderstandings that helped define the first film. A source told Variety India, “The casting has been finalized, and the team will announce it shortly.”
The makers have yet to officially reveal the new cast. Earlier reports had suggested several familiar actors could return, but the latest update indicates that the project’s lineup has changed.
Revisiting the 2006 Comedy
Released in 2006, Malamaal Weekly was written and directed by Priyadarshan and featured Paresh Rawal, Om Puri, Riteish Deshmukh, Arbaaz Khan, Rajpal Yadav and Asrani. The story followed a group of villagers caught in a chaotic scheme involving a lottery win and the temptation of sudden wealth.
Although the film received mixed reviews from critics, it became a commercial success and was later remade in Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. Its blend of greed, mistaken assumptions and ensemble comedy helped it build a lasting audience.
What’s Next for the Sequel?
With Priyadarshan and Riteish Deshmukh out, Malamaal Weekly 2 will need to establish its own identity while preserving the spirit of the original. Amit Joshi’s direction and the yet-to-be-announced cast will shape the next chapter, with further details expected from the makers soon.
