Maddock Films confirmed on Friday that 'Stree 3', the third instalment of its hit horror-comedy franchise starring Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, will arrive around the Diwali 2026 festive window. The studio announced the date one day after teasing the release.

The franchise has become the commercial backbone of Maddock's interconnected horror-comedy universe, which also includes 'Munjya', 'Bhediya' and 'Stree 2'. 'Stree 2', released in August 2024, grossed more than ₹600 crore in India and ranks among the highest-earning Hindi films, raising expectations for the sequel.

Producer Dinesh Vijan and director Amar Kaushik have steered the universe toward a shared continuity, with cameos linking the films. A Diwali slot positions 'Stree 3' for the lucrative multi-day holiday period, when Hindi tentpoles typically post their strongest openings.

The announcement intensifies competition for cinema screens during the crowded festive calendar, where major Hindi and regional releases routinely vie for weekend dominance. Exhibitors and multiplex chains have been awaiting a confirmed Maddock date to plan their end-of-year programming.

Maddock Films said principal photography had been completed and that a first look and teaser would follow in the coming weeks.