Studio CarryOnHarry Entertainment Desk | 29 June 2026

Priyadarshan Exits Hera Pheri 3: Will the Film Ever Release?

One of Bollywood’s most eagerly anticipated sequels has been dealt a fresh blow. Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan has officially confirmed his departure from Hera Pheri 3, casting serious doubt over whether the Akshay Kumar-starrer will ever reach cinemas. Keep up with all Bollywood’s top stories as this developing saga continues to unfold.

Priyadarshan Breaks His Silence

The celebrated Malayalam-Hindi filmmaker, known for directing the iconic original Hera Pheri (2000) and its 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri, has made it unequivocally clear that he is no longer part of the third instalment. Speaking candidly, Priyadarshan stated that the film may simply never hit the big screen — a damning assessment from the man who built the franchise.

He also confirmed that the project had not been scheduled to go on floors in 2026, signalling that production timelines remain entirely up in the air.

Legal Troubles and Behind-the-Scenes Drama

The troubles surrounding Hera Pheri 3 are far from new. The project has been mired in controversy for several years, with multiple disputes threatening to derail it at every turn.

The Paresh Rawal Payment Row

A significant flashpoint has been a reported payment dispute involving veteran actor Paresh Rawal, who plays the beloved character Baburao. Reports suggest Rawal exited the project over unresolved financial disagreements with the production, throwing the core cast dynamic into disarray.

Producer Firoz Nadiadwala at the Centre

Producer Firoz Nadiadwala, who holds the rights to the franchise, has faced ongoing legal and logistical challenges that have repeatedly stalled the film’s progress. Broader entertainment industry coverage has highlighted how such prolonged disputes can permanently derail even the most bankable franchises.

What This Means for the Franchise

• Priyadarshan has officially stepped away from the director’s chair
• The film has no confirmed production start date for 2026
• Paresh Rawal’s involvement remains uncertain following a reported payment dispute
• Legal complications continue to cloud the project’s future

A Legacy Left in Limbo

The Hera Pheri franchise holds a near-mythical status among Bollywood fans, with the original film widely regarded as one of Hindi cinema’s greatest comedies. The prospect of a third chapter failing to materialise would be a significant loss for audiences who have waited over two decades for the trio of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao to reunite.

For now, the future of Hera Pheri 3 remains painfully uncertain — and Priyadarshan’s candid exit only deepens the gloom surrounding a once-dream project.

– Entertainment Desk, Studio Carry On Harry

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