Marathi cinema has seen a tremendous evolution over the past decade, with a growing audience embracing both mainstream entertainers and content-driven films. As the industry continues to thrive, 2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year, especially with several highly anticipated sequels set to hit the big screen.
From action-packed dramas to heartfelt comedies, Marathi filmmakers are capitalizing on the success of their previous hits, bringing back beloved characters and compelling stories with a fresh twist.
One of the most awaited sequels is ‘Vaalvi 2,’ following up on Paresh Mokashi’s hit film that redefined Marathi cinema. Fans are eager to see how the next chapter unfolds. Another major sequel creating buzz is ‘Zapatlela 3,’ which promises to bring back the horror-comedy magic that made the first two films a cult favorite.
With technological advancements and a modern cinematic approach, this installment is expected to be even more thrilling and entertaining. Meanwhile, Siddharth Jadhav’s ‘Huppa Huiyya 2 promises to deliver an even more grandiose and stylish cinematic experience that will captivate audiences once again.
Apart from these, sequels to hit films like ‘Aaipan Bhari Deva‘ and ‘Duniyadari’ are rumored to be in development, making 2025 an exciting year for Marathi movie lovers. With powerful storytelling, fresh narratives, and nostalgic elements, these films are expected to set new benchmarks at the box office. As Marathi cinema continues to flourish, these sequels are poised to leave a lasting impact, ensuring an exciting cinematic experience for audiences.
Discussing the importance of sequels and franchises in bringing audiences back to theaters, film trade expert Girish Wankhede shared with ETimes, “Sequels like the Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai series, which resonate deeply with viewers through cherished characters, continue to perform strongly. Such sequels and franchise films are expected to remain favorites among audiences.”
“Looking ahead, two genres are expected to dominate Marathi cinema this year. First, sequels and franchises, particularly those centered around historical icons like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, are poised for success. Second, the suspense-thriller genre, exemplified by films like ‘Valvi’ and ‘Aapla Manus’ (starring Nana Patekar), is rapidly gaining popularity. These sleek, noir-inspired films, influenced by international cinema, cater to a new generation of Marathi viewers with a preference for Western-style storytelling. Meanwhile, traditional cinema, driven by prequels and sequels, continues to captivate a distinct audience segment, Wankhede noted.”
Here’s a look at some of the most highly anticipated Marathi film sequels that are expected to hit the silver screen in 2025.
‘Vaalvi 2’
Marathi cinema’s ace filmmaker Paresh Mokashi’s last released dark comedy thriller, ‘Vaalvi,’ did well at the box office. It starred Swwapnil Joshi, Anita Kelkar, Shivani Surve, and Subodh Bhave in pivotal roles. Recently, on the occasion of Paresh’s birthday, the film’s team announced that a sequel to ‘Vaalvi’ will go on the floors soon. The makers shared a video on Instagram where he shared that ‘Vaalvi 2’ is in the making.
‘Zapatlela 3’
The highly anticipated announcement is finally here. ‘Zapatlela 3,’ the third installment in the immensely successful Marathi horror-comedy film franchise, is officially in the works. The makers made the official announcement with an interesting and intriguing poster.’Zapatlela 3′ will be helmed by actor-director Mahesh Kothare, who directed the previous two installments. Leading the pack in this electrifying venture is none other than noted actor Addinath Kothare, who is set to mesmerize audiences with his portrayal in the lead role yet again and join him alongside would-be mischievous yet loved ‘Tatya Vinchu.’.
‘Aaipan Bhari Deva’
Kedar Shinde has yet again collaborated for their upcoming film Aaipan Bhari Deva, a sequel to the 2023 blockbuster Marathi film ‘Baipan Bhari Deva’ featuring Rohini Hattangady, Vandana Gupte, Suchitra Bandekar, Sukanya Kulkarni, Shilpa Navalkar, and Deepa Parab in lead roles. The makers have now announced a sequel titled Aaipan Bhari Deva, celebrating the journey of womanhood. ‘Aaipan Bhari Deva’ is scheduled to be released in 2025.
‘Huppa Huiyya 2’
After 15 years, the highly awaited sequel to the iconic film ‘Huppa Huiyya’ is finally in the making! Helmed by visionary director Samit Kakkad, ‘Huppa Huiyya 2’ promises an even more grand and visually striking cinematic experience that will once again mesmerize audiences.
Sharing his excitement, Kakkad said, “As a devoted Hanuman bhakt, I couldn’t refuse this opportunity. My goal has always been to push creative boundaries with each film, and I hope to do the same with this one.”
‘No Entry Pudhe Dhoka Aahey-2‘
The film ‘No Entry Pudhe Dhoka Aahey-2,’ starring many popular actors like Ankush Choudhary, Sai Tamhankar, Bharat Jadhav, Aniket Vasantrao, Sai Lokur, Manva Naik, and Kranti Redkar, was well received by the audience. Now, after 13 years, the sequel to this film will be released. Popular actor Ankush Choudhary himself has announced ”No Entry Pudhe Dhoka Aahey-2—A Comedy of Terrors” on social media.
The Rise of Sequels in Marathi Cinema
Marathi cinema is undergoing a new wave of storytelling, with sequels becoming a prevailing trend. While the industry has long been known for its rich narratives and strong performances, the success of franchise films has proven that audiences love revisiting familiar characters and worlds.
As anticipation builds for these sequels, it’s evident that Marathi cinema is thriving, delivering a dynamic blend of action, comedy, romance, and drama. With beloved stars returning and fresh narratives unfolding, 2025 is set to be a spectacular year, offering an unforgettable cinematic experience for audiences nationwide.