The fate of Hera Pheri 3 continues to hang in the balance. In an exclusive interaction with India Today, filmmaker Priyadarshan confirmed that the much-anticipated sequel remains stalled, with ongoing legal issues preventing the project from moving forward.
“It is still…there are some legal issues. We are trying to sort it out. Once that is sorted, then we’ll go ahead with that film,” he said, offering a measured but hopeful update on the franchise’s status. The statement comes after years of uncertainty surrounding the third instalment of the cult comedy series that began with Hera Pheri and continued with Phir Hera Pheri.
A franchise tangled in disputes
Headlined by Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, the Hera Pheri franchise remains one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring comedy brands. Its characters—Raju, Shyam, and Baburao—have transcended the screen to become a part of internet culture.
However, the road to a third instalment has been fraught with complications.
As of early 2026, Hera Pheri 3 is facing severe legal, financial, and contractual hurdles. A South Indian production house, Seven Arts International, has filed a copyright claim asserting that producer Firoz Nadiadwala does not hold the rights to the franchise. The dispute has added another layer of uncertainty, potentially stalling production on the much-awaited film.
The situation builds on years of turbulence, with earlier reports pointing to disagreements over rights ownership, contractual obligations, and creative control. At various points, the conflict reportedly escalated into legal notices and public disagreements between stakeholders.
But Priyadarshan’s return to the franchise had sparked renewed excitement, given that he directed the 2000 original that laid the foundation for its cult status. His association with the third film is seen as a creative reset of sorts, especially after years of development limbo.
When asked about returning to comedy, he responded with trademark humility and humour: “Let’s see. You also pray that I’ll have the brain to do it.”
Still stalled, not shelved
For now, Hera Pheri 3 remains in a holding pattern. With legal issues yet to be resolved, the film’s production timeline continues to be uncertain.
But Priyadarshan’s update makes one thing clear: the project is not off the table.
