Hera Pheri 3 stuck in legal trouble, Priyadarshan says efforts are on to resolve it
Hera Pheri 3 is currently embroiled in legal disputes, due to which its much-awaited production is getting delayed. In an exclusive conversation with us, filmmaker Priyadarshan expressed hope that once the issues are resolved, the project will move forward.
fate of rigging 3 Hanging in limbo. In an exclusive chat with India Today, filmmaker Priyadarshan confirmed that the much-awaited sequel is on hold, with ongoing legal issues preventing the project from going ahead.
“There’s still…some legal issues. We’re trying to sort that out. Once that’s resolved, we’ll move forward with that film,” he said, offering a measured but promising update on the status of the franchise. This statement comes after years of uncertainty about the third installment of the cult comedy series which started with Hera Pheri and then continued with Hera Pheri.
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Franchise embroiled in controversies
Directed by Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, the Hera Pheri franchise remains one of the most enduring comedy brands of Hindi cinema. Its characters—Raju, Shyam and Baburao—have transcended the screen and become a part of internet culture.
However, the road to the third installment is fraught with complications.
Due in early 2026, Hera Pheri 3 is facing serious legal, financial and contractual hurdles. Seven Arts International, a South Indian production house, has filed a copyright claim stating that producer Firoz Nadiadwala does not own the rights to the franchise. The controversy has added another layer of uncertainty, potentially halting production of the highly anticipated film.
The situation builds on years of turmoil, 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 has sparked renewed enthusiasm, given that he directed the original 2000 film that laid the foundation for its cult status. His involvement with the third film is seen as a creative reset of sorts, especially after years of development being in limbo.
When asked about a return to comedy, he responded with trademark humility and humor: “Let’s see. You also pray I have the brains to do it.”
Still on hold, not postponed
At the moment, Hera Pheri remains in a 3 holding pattern. With legal issues yet to be resolved, the timeline for the film’s production remains uncertain.
But Priyadarshan’s update makes one thing clear: the project is not closed.