MUMBAI: After the success of Dabangg and Dabangg 2, Salman Khan-starrer Dabangg 3 is in the scripting stage, but this time Arbaaz Khan will not be directing the movie. 

In an interview with Indian media, Arbaaz said he has taken a step back from direction due to personal issues. Dabangg 3 will be directed by Prabhudeva instead. 

Speaking to Press Trust of India (PTI), Arbaaz said, "I wanted the franchise to have a fresh feel to it. I did it with 'Dabangg 2'. At this point, I felt a lot of things were happening in my life (referring to his separation from wife Malaika Arora).

"Directing, producing and acting is a big responsibility. You need to be in a good state of mind and not have things going on at the back of your mind. I felt it was not the right time to (direct) do it, maybe later, I will do it."

While Arbaaz feels he would have done a better job if he was directing the third installment, he added, "I do not regret the decision... Hopefully, next time or if something else comes up (for direction)... we'll see." 

The first two instalments of the Dabangg series saw veteran actor Vinod Khanna as Salman and Arbaaz's father.

While Arbaaz confirmed that the character would be part of the third instalment, he did not say who would be essaying the role in Khanna's stead.

"We will miss his presence, but we will find a way. But the script also moves in a way (referring to change in storyline) and also we are coming after a big gap. We have the liberty to make changes or adjustments to the story as there is a time gap. It is unfortunate he is not with us."

The third instalment is expected to be released in 2019.