Big blow for ‘Hera Pheri’ fans: Priyadarshan exits third film, says it may never happen

Director Priyadarshan has confirmed that he is no longer attached to ‘Hera Pheri 3’, casting fresh uncertainty over the long-delayed comedy sequel starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal. 

The filmmaker also painted a bleak picture of the project's future, saying ongoing legal disputes and personal differences could prevent the film from ever reaching cinemas. His remarks come shortly after producer Feroze Nadiadwala stated that Priyadarshan was no longer directing the third instalment of the popular franchise.

Confirming his departure in a statement to Hindustan Times, Priyadarshan said, "What Feroze has said is true. I am not associated with ‘Hera Pheri 3’ at present."

He further added, "To the best of my knowledge, ‘Hera Pheri 3’ will never hit the screen due to lots of legal issues and personal conflicts. Whether I am involved or not is unimportant."

Priyadarshan's remarks differ from producer's optimism

While Priyadarshan believes the project may never materialise, producer Feroze Nadiadwala has maintained that development is continuing despite the director's exit.

In an interview with Variety India, Nadiadwala said the film remains on course, although he confirmed that Priyadarshan is no longer involved.

"Things are on track and moving in the right direction," he said, adding, "Priyadarshan is not part of it."

The differing statements have left the future of ‘Hera Pheri 3’ unclear, with no official confirmation on when or if production will begin.

Rights dispute continues to cloud the project

The third instalment has spent years in development, facing repeated delays and setbacks.

One of the biggest obstacles has been an ongoing dispute over ownership of the ‘Hera Pheri’ franchise. South-based production company Seven Arts International has claimed it holds the rights to the franchise and its characters, a position disputed by Feroze Nadiadwala.

Earlier, a spokesperson for Akshay Kumar's production house also said the rights had been acquired from Nadiadwala under the understanding that he was the legitimate rights holder, adding another layer to the legal uncertainty surrounding the film.

Paresh Rawal's exit and return added to delays

The project also encountered turbulence after Paresh Rawal unexpectedly stepped away from the film in May 2025. His departure reportedly led Akshay Kumar to file a Rs 25 crore lawsuit against his co-star over the actor's withdrawal from the project.

However, the dispute was later resolved, with Rawal returning to the film.

Speaking to Mid-Day after the matter was settled, Priyadarshan recalled how both actors contacted him together.

"Both Akshay and Paresh called to say that everything is sorted. I was in shock when Paresh said, ‘Sir, I’m doing the movie. I have never had anything except a lot of respect for you. I’ve done 26 movies with you, and I’m sorry to have left the film. There were some personal issues.'"

The director also stressed that the franchise depends on its three principal actors returning together.

"Hera Pheri cannot happen without any of the three lead characters. Recently, on a flight, a diamond merchant and his family came to me and requested me to bring Paresh back. They said they won’t watch the film otherwise."

A fan favourite franchise

Released in 2000, ‘Hera Pheri’, directed by Priyadarshan, went on to become one of Bollywood's most celebrated comedy films. Its sequel, ‘Phir Hera Pheri’ (2006), directed by Neeraj Vora, also enjoyed commercial success and developed a loyal fan following.

‘Hera Pheri 3’ was expected to reunite the original trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, with Priyadarshan returning to direct after more than two decades. Although the three actors recently reunited for ‘Welcome To The Jungle’, another film backed by Feroze Nadiadwala, the future of ‘Hera Pheri 3’ now appears more uncertain than ever following Priyadarshan's latest remarks.