Director Distanced From Much Awaited Sequel

Speaking to scribes, Priyadarshan said, “What Feroze has said is true. I am not associated with Hera Pheri 3 at the present. To the best of my knowledge, Hera Pheri 3 will never hit the screens due to lots of legal issues and personal conflicts. Whether I am involved or not is unimportant”.

Priyadarshan's statement came shortly after producer Firoz A Nadiadwala told media, “Things are on track and moving in the right direction,” while clarifying, “Priyadarshan is not part of it”. With the director and producer offering completely contrasting views, the fate of the third installment remains highly uncertain.

The core issue stalling Hera Pheri 3 is a multi-layered legal dispute over IP rights. A South-based production company, Seven Arts International, has claimed ownership of the franchise rights and accused Nadiadwala of breaching contract terms after the original 2000 film. The matter is currently sub judice in the Madras High Court. Priyadarshan also flagged music rights as a concern, with Bhushan Kumar reportedly asserting claims over Hera Pheri 3's soundtrack.

Beyond legal troubles, Hera Pheri 3 has been plagued by casting turbulence. In May 2025, Paresh Rawal unexpectedly exited the project, prompting Akshay Kumar to file a ₹25 crore lawsuit for “gross unprofessional conduct”. The matter was later resolved amicably, with Rawal confirming his differences with the makers were settled and he rejoined the film. The incident exposed deeper “overall disorganisation” in the production process.