'Welcome to the jungle': What made Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar call it quits from the franchise?

The world of Bollywood was set abuzz as news spread like wildfire, revealing a major twist in the upcoming movie 'Welcome 3.' The iconic characters Majnu and Uday, played by Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar, were originally set to reprise their roles in the film. However, unforeseen circumstances and financial negotiations led to their replacement by Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi.

Majnu and Uday's eccentric camaraderie had become synonymous with the 'Welcome' franchise, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans.  As the curtains rise on 'Welcome To The Jungle,' the legacy continues, albeit with a twist.

Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar were initially offered roles in 'Welcome 3.' Their presence was highly anticipated, as they have been instrumental in shaping the franchise's identity. However, discussions about their participation soon came to a halt due to monetary considerations. A reported demand of Rs. 18 crores by Anil Kapoor for his role prompted a significant turn of events.

Producer Firoz Nadiadwala faced an unexpected dilemma as negotiations faltered over financial terms. The demand of such a substantial sum took everyone by surprise, leaving many to question the feasibility of the project. Anil Kapoor's reasoning stemmed from his belief that "Welcome 3" had the potential to be a massive box office success, potentially raking in Rs. 300 crores. While he made a compelling case, negotiations failed to find common ground.

Akshay Kumar, a prominent figure in the "Welcome" series, attempted to mediate between Anil Kapoor and the production team. He recognized the importance of maintaining the chemistry that had endeared fans to the franchise. However, Anil remained steadfast in his stance, leading to his eventual departure from the project. 

In the wake of Anil Kapoor's exit, Nana Patekar also chose to step back from the film. Without the two components together, the essence of their characters would have been altered, prompting Nana's decision to withdraw from the project.

In response to this unexpected twist, Akshay Kumar and Firoz Nadiadwala decided to rewrite the narrative. Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi were brought on board to fill the roles left vacant by Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar. Their camaraderie and on-screen chemistry were already proven through their collaborations in the "Munna Bhai" series, making them a natural fit for the ensemble cast. 'Welcome 3' is now poised for a grand Christmas 2024 release.