The long-gestating comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3 has suffered a major setback after director Priyadarshan confirmed that he is no longer associated with the project and cast doubt on whether the film will ever be completed. His remarks come amid ongoing legal disputes and ownership conflicts surrounding the popular franchise.

Confirming his exit, Priyadarshan stated that he is currently not involved in Hera Pheri 3, adding that the situation around the film remains deeply complicated. His comments follow producer Firoz Nadiadwala’s earlier statement indicating that the original director was no longer part of the project. The development has further fuelled uncertainty around the future of the long-delayed film.

The filmmaker also suggested that Hera Pheri 3 may not move forward at all due to unresolved legal and contractual disputes. He noted that multiple parties have staked claims over different aspects of the franchise, including film and music rights, making it difficult to proceed with production. According to Priyadarshan, these complications are significant enough that the project may never reach the screen.

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Legal issues surrounding the film have been ongoing for some time, with conflicting claims over ownership and adaptation rights. Reports indicate that disputes have emerged regarding the rights to the original concept as well as subsequent instalments in the franchise. There have also been competing assertions from production houses and stakeholders regarding control over the brand and its associated intellectual property.

The controversy has previously impacted casting and production plans. Actor Paresh Rawal had earlier exited the project, while legal tensions involving franchise stakeholders and actor Akshay Kumar also drew public attention. These developments have contributed to repeated delays, with production timelines repeatedly pushed back amid unresolved disagreements.

The Hera Pheri franchise, which began in 2000 with Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal in lead roles, is widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most popular comedy series. Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, released in 2006, further cemented its cult status. However, with ongoing disputes and the director’s exit, the future of the third instalment now remains uncertain.

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