Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan has confirmed that the much-awaited Hera Pheri 3 will not begin production this year, citing unresolved legal disputes over the film and music rights. In an interview with E Times, Priyadarshan revealed that multiple parties have claimed ownership of the project’s rights, creating complications that must be settled before filming can start. “Certain people said they have the rights to the film, while others claimed rights to the music,” he said, adding that the situation remains complex.

The director noted that music baron Bhushan Kumar has publicly asserted ownership of the film’s music rights. Until such disputes are legally resolved, the team cannot move forward. When asked directly about the production timeline, Priyadarshan stated clearly that the film is “definitely not” going on floors this year.

Legal friction has also emerged around producer Firoz Nadiadwala’s rights. According to reports, Seven Arts International claims Nadiadwala’s original agreement only covered the Hindi remake of the Malayalam film Ramji Rao Speaking, which inspired the 2000 hit Hera Pheri. The company alleges that subsequent franchise developments exceeded those rights.

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Priyadarshan also addressed speculation surrounding Paresh Rawal’s temporary exit from the project and reports of a legal dispute involving Akshay Kumar. He dismissed any talk of lasting tensions, saying professional disagreements in cinema are often resolved and do not create permanent rifts.

The original Hera Pheri franchise — starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal — began in 2000 and was followed by Phir Hera Pheri in 2006. Fans will now have to wait longer as the makers work through legal hurdles before the beloved comedy series can return to the big screen.

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