Priyadarshan Declares “Hera Pheri 3 Will Be Dead” Following Exit from Akshay Kumar Film, Citing Insults from Firoz Nadiadwala
After confirming his departure from the highly anticipated film Hera Pheri 3, filmmaker Priyadarshan has shed light on the reasons behind his decision. The director cited ongoing insults from producer Firoz Nadiadwala and a protracted copyright dispute as key factors that led him to believe the film may never come to fruition. This revelation follows Nadiadwala’s announcement that Priyadarshan would no longer be directing the comedy franchise.
Priyadarshan’s Concerns About Hera Pheri 3
In an exclusive interview with Mid-Day, Priyadarshan elaborated on his exit from the project. He expressed his frustration over repeated insults from Nadiadwala, stating, “Firoz told Akshay, ‘You have the rights to make Hera Pheri 3, but never make it with Priyadarshan. That’s my only request.’ He has insulted me so many times.” The director recalled a specific incident where Nadiadwala criticized his work on the original Hera Pheri, saying it looked like “a poor man’s version” and that he had to edit Priyadarshan’s five-hour cut of the film.
Despite these challenges, Priyadarshan initially agreed to direct the third installment, believing he could elevate the franchise. He noted, “I initially agreed to do the third part with Akshay because I thought I could make one of this country’s biggest franchises.” He mentioned that Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal were all excited when he narrated the story to them.
Legal Complications Surrounding the Project
Priyadarshan revealed that the issues surrounding Hera Pheri 3 began much earlier than his exit. He received a warning from GP Vijayakumar of Seven Arts Films in 2025, indicating potential legal complications if the film proceeded. “When Hera Pheri 3 was announced, I got a call from Seven Arts Films’ GP Vijayakumar that if we ever do the film, it will be a violation,” he explained. This prompted him to conclude that the film might never see the light of day with the original cast.
He expressed his dismay over the franchise’s trajectory, stating, “According to me, Hera Pheri [2000] was born, Hera Pheri 2 [2006] became sick, and Hera Pheri 3 will be dead.” His comments reflect a deep concern for the legacy of the beloved series.
Continued Collaboration with Akshay Kumar
Despite stepping away from Hera Pheri 3, Priyadarshan’s professional relationship with Akshay Kumar remains intact. Shortly after confirming his exit, he announced their ninth collaboration. Bollywood Hungama reported that the duo is working on an exciting new project, which will be a typical Priyan entertainer aimed at both youth and families.
The untitled film will be produced by Tips Films, marking their first collaboration with Priyadarshan and the second project together for Akshay Kumar and Tips after the 2014 film Entertainment. This announcement comes ahead of the release of their eighth collaboration, Haiwaan, which is set to hit theaters on September 11, 2026, and also features Saif Ali Khan in a significant role.
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