Nana Patekar Reveals Why He And Anil Kapoor Turned Down “Welcome 3”

Anees Bazmee’s film, Welcome was a huge hit back in 2007, and two of the most beloved and memorable characters of the franchise were Udai Bhai (played by Nana Patekar) and Majnu Bhai (played by Anil Kapoor). However, unfortunately, the iconic duo will not feature in the upcoming 3rd installment of the franchise. In an interview with The Lallantop, Nana Patekar disclosed reasons for declining the upcoming third installment, “Welcome to the Jungle.”

Nana credited director Anees Bazmee for the success of the 2007 cult comedy “Welcome.” He remembered his initial doubts about portraying Udai Bhai and shared that he had challenged Anees to reassure him, even making him swear on his mother’s name that the role would be a good fit.

He added, “But it wouldn’t have been complete if Anil and I weren’t doing it together. If Anil and I are there, then only Welcome is possible. If you remove me, then he alone can’t make Welcome and vice-versa,”

He remembered that despite being directed by Anees, the film’s sequel “Welcome Back” (2015) did not perform well at the box office. Nana then explained that due to lack of creative storyline he and Anil declined the opportunity to join the upcoming third installment, “Welcome to the Jungle,” which is being directed by Ahmed Khan.

He said, “They did approach us. We said no. Kahani nahi hai. Utna mazza nahi aaya.”

About Welcome

Anees Bazmee’s 2007 hit starred Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Paresh Rawal, Feroz Khan, and Mallika Sherawat. The 2015 sequel featured Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, Paresh Rawal, John Abraham, Shruti Haasan, Naseeruddin Shah, and Dimple Kapadia but didn’t fare well.

The upcoming “Welcome to the Jungle,” releasing Christmas 2024, boasts a massive ensemble including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Sanjay Dutt, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Disha Patani, and others.

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