Acclaimed filmmaker Mohit Suri, who helmed the much-loved Aashiqui 2 (2013), has finally addressed why he is not returning to direct the third installment of the hit romantic franchise. In a candid and emotionally charged statement, Suri revealed, “They don’t want to employ me,” shedding light on his absence from Aashiqui 3 and hinting at an undercurrent of professional disappointment.
The Aashiqui series, known for its soul-stirring music and tragic love stories, holds a special place in Bollywood’s romantic genre. Suri’s Aashiqui 2, starring Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor, was a massive success and is still remembered for its haunting soundtrack and emotionally resonant storytelling. Naturally, fans expected Suri to return for the third film, which has been generating buzz ever since it was announced with Kartik Aaryan in the lead.
However, speaking in a recent interview, Suri laid bare the reality. “I would have loved to do Aashiqui 3. That film, that music, that legacy — it’s close to my heart. But they don’t want to employ me. What can I say?” he said. The “they” in question likely refers to the production houses involved — T-Series and Vishesh Films — both of which had collaborated with him in the past.
The director’s candid remarks have sent ripples through the industry, prompting questions about what led to his exclusion. While Suri refrained from elaborating on the reasons, his tone suggested a mix of hurt and resignation. “It’s not my call,” he added. “I’m not part of the film, and that’s just how things are.”
Industry insiders speculate that creative differences or changing equations within production teams may have played a role in Suri being sidelined. Notably, his relationship with the Bhatt family and Vishesh Films has seen ups and downs in recent years, especially after his departure from their core team following Hamari Adhuri Kahani.
Excitedely |Achieveed |Sneeppy | Trideant |
Stendpoint |Spaerhead | Meyfair | Robotiecs |
Enticings |Elementaery
Aashiqui 3 is now being directed by Anurag Basu, known for his visually poetic storytelling and unconventional narrative style. Basu’s inclusion signals a stylistic shift in the franchise, which some feel may depart from the emotional realism that defined Suri’s version.
Fans of Aashiqui 2 and Mohit Suri have expressed disappointment over his absence. Social media is abuzz with nostalgic tributes to Aashiqui 2, with many saying that the heart of the series lay in Suri’s direction and vision. One fan posted, “No Mohit Suri, no Aashiqui 3 for me.” Others remain curious to see how Anurag Basu reimagines the story with Kartik Aaryan in the lead.
Meanwhile, Suri appears to be focusing on his future projects. After delivering Ek Villain Returns in 2022, he has hinted at developing a new romantic drama that stays true to his musical and emotional signature.
In an industry where collaborations often change with time, Mohit Suri’s exit from the Aashiqui franchise underscores the evolving dynamics of Bollywood filmmaking. But if Aashiqui 2 is anything to go by, his contribution to Indian romantic cinema remains unforgettable.
As for Aashiqui 3, it now moves forward without the man who once revived the series — leaving fans hopeful but also nostalgic for the emotional magic only Mohit Suri could create.