Shanaya Kapoor is all set to lead the third edition of the Student of the Year franchise, but this time with a twist — it’s shifting gears to a web series format. Fans of the franchise can look forward to a fresh new experience as SOTY 3 moves from the big screen to a six-episode series, and this time, it’s all about high school drama with a modern touch.
A New Era for Student of the Year Franchise
The Student of the Year saga, which has already become a household name, is breaking away from its traditional Bollywood movie format. This time, Karan Johar’s iconic high-school drama will debut on an OTT platform, marking a major transition from cinemas to streaming. SOTY 3, which is slated to air on JioHotstar, is gearing up to capture the attention of a whole new audience in a binge-worthy six-episode series.
Unlike the glitzy movie productions of its predecessors, this series will feature a more intimate, episode-based storytelling approach. Directed by Reema Maya, the series will be filmed over a tight 30-day schedule. The production is set to start on April 20, 2025, with excitement already brewing over what the new format will bring to the table.
A Double Role for Shanaya Kapoor
Shanaya Kapoor, who has quickly garnered attention in the entertainment world, is taking on a bold challenge with SOTY 3. The 25-year-old actress is not only headlining the series but will also be playing a double role, a first in the Student of the Year franchise. This dual-character arc promises to add depth and intrigue to the narrative, giving fans a fresh perspective on her acting chops.
The insider sources close to the project suggest that Shanaya’s dual-role performance will be one of the standout features of the series. “SOTY 3 has been in development for the past six years, and with Karan’s final approval, it’s now ready for production,” shared the insider. This lengthy wait has only heightened the anticipation surrounding the series, with many eager to see how Shanaya will tackle her complex roles.
In addition to her dual role in the series, the young actress’s career is set to skyrocket in 2025. Shanaya has also completed filming for her debut film, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, which is scheduled for release in mid-2025. This film marks a major milestone for her, signaling her versatility as an actress beyond the glitzy SOTY franchise.
The Evolution of the SOTY Franchise
The Student of the Year brand has undergone significant evolution since its debut in 2012, with each film offering a glimpse into the lives of privileged high school students, and the third installment is no exception. The previous films in the franchise were massive hits, with stars like Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, and Siddharth Malhotra being launched into stardom. Now, the focus shifts to a new generation of students, bringing with it a more modern and relevant narrative.
By moving to an OTT platform, SOTY 3 can experiment with new formats and offer a more nuanced portrayal of the high school experience. The shift also means that fans will have easier access to the series, making it more inclusive to a global audience who may have previously missed out on the big-screen spectacle. With streaming platforms taking over the entertainment industry, SOTY 3 is poised to capitalize on this shift, allowing for a more personal and detailed dive into its characters’ lives.
Shanaya’s Packed Year Ahead
While SOTY 3 will undoubtedly dominate the headlines in the coming months, Shanaya Kapoor has a busy year ahead, and she’s ready to take on new challenges. Apart from her starring role in the Student of the Year series, Shanaya has already wrapped up filming for her first feature film, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. The film, which is set to hit theatres in mid-2025, promises to showcase a different side of the actress, broadening her appeal and proving her talent.
Moreover, she is also set to star in the upcoming survival thriller, Tu Yaa Main, alongside Adarsh Gourav. The film, scheduled for release on Valentine’s Day 2026, adds another feather to her cap. As Shanaya steps into these diverse roles, it’s clear that she is carving a niche for herself in both the digital and cinematic worlds.
Shanaya’s versatility and commitment to exploring different genres will likely keep audiences intrigued throughout the year. From high school drama to gripping survival thrillers, she’s ready to prove that she’s more than just the face of the SOTY franchise.
