There’s a new twist in Munna Bhai’s life. A few days ago, the makers of the hit franchise announced that Rajkumar Hirani, who directed Munna Bhai MBBS (2003) and Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), would be replaced by Subhash Kapoor, of Jolly LLB fame, to direct the upcoming third part. But now, in a surprising move, the film’s lead actor Sanjay Dutt, informs us that Hirani will continue as the director of the Munna Bhai franchise.

“I am happy that it’s (Munna Bhai 3) shaping up now because it had to happen ultimately. I just want to clear on one thing: Munna Bhai 3 is going to be directed by Raju Hirani. The fourth part will be done by Subhash (Kapoor),” says Sanjay, adding, “That’s what I wish and want.”Ask Sanjay if Hirani is definitely helming Munna Bhai 3 and he reasserts his point, “Yes, it will definitely happen like that (with Hirani as director).” Subhash was roped in to direct Munna Bhai Chale Delhi as Hirani was apparently too busy with the Aamir Khan-Sanjay-starrer P.K. It’s believed that Sanjay is personally keen to complete the Munna Bhai trilogy with Hirani at the helm. “He had even discussed the film with Raju sir when they were shooting for P.K. in Rajasthan,” says an industry insider.

Talking about why the film’s third instalment has taken over six years and is yet to be made, Sanjay says, “It has to go beyond Lage Raho... but I think Raju and the team has cracked the idea this time. It makes me feel good that people still want to watch Munna Bhai after such a long time.”When we contacted Subhash to ask him about this new development, he insisted that he is directing Munna Bhai 3. Hirani, however, remained unavailable for a comment.