Why Did Priyadarshan Walk Away from ‘Hera Pheri 3’?

News Desk 

Islamabad: The long-awaited third installment of Bollywood’s iconic comedy franchise, Hera Pheri, has been hit by fresh uncertainty after acclaimed director Priyadarshan confirmed that he is no longer attached to Hera Pheri 3.

Speaking about his decision, Priyadarshan alleged that producer Feroz Nadiadwala repeatedly disrespected him and even advised actor Akshay Kumar not to participate in the project if the film moved forward.

The director claimed that Nadiadwala had also criticized the original 2000 blockbuster Hera Pheri, describing it as “a poor person’s film,” and said the producer had personally edited the original five-hour cut before its release.

Priyadarshan revealed that he had only agreed to return to the franchise at the request of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal. According to him, all three lead actors were excited after hearing the script and were eager to begin filming.

He expressed confidence that Hera Pheri 3 could have become one of India’s biggest comedy franchises had the project been completed.

However, Priyadarshan said he later learned from Seven Arts Films that the project was facing serious legal and rights-related disputes, making production increasingly difficult.

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Summing up the franchise’s troubled journey, the director remarked: “Hera Pheri was born in 2000, Phir Hera Pheri fell ill in 2006, and Hera Pheri 3 is probably dead.”

Despite his comments, no official announcement has been made regarding the cancellation of the film.

The Hera Pheri franchise remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedy series, with the characters Raju, Shyam and Baburao Ganpatrao Apte continuing to enjoy immense popularity among audiences more than two decades after the first film’s release.

The return of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal had generated significant excitement among fans. However, Paresh Rawal’s temporary exit from the project last year, his subsequent return, ongoing legal disputes and Priyadarshan’s departure have cast fresh doubt over the film’s future.

Priyadarshan clarified that his professional relationship with Akshay Kumar remains strong. The duo is currently collaborating on a new comedy project as well as the upcoming film Haiwan, which is expected to be released on September 11.

Film industry observers believe that unless the legal and rights issues are resolved soon, Hera Pheri 3 could face further delays, while fans continue to await an official statement from the producers regarding the future of the much-anticipated sequel.