Filmmaker Priyadarshan has shared a disappointing update for fans waiting for Hera Pheri 3, expressing doubts about whether the much-anticipated sequel will ever reach the big screen. In a recent interview with, the director spoke about the numerous complications surrounding the project and explained why he is no longer involved in the franchise’s third instalment.
Priyadarshan also revealed that he declined Akshay Kumar’s offer to direct Bhagam Bhag 2. Explaining his decision, the filmmaker said he believes sequels should offer a stronger story than their predecessors rather than rely solely on the popularity of the original films.
Priyadarshan Explains Why Hera Pheri 3 May Never Be Made
Priyadarshan directed the original Hera Pheri, released in 2000, which featured Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal in leading roles. The comedy went on to become a cult favourite, making the prospect of a third instalment a major talking point among fans.
However, the director has now expressed serious doubts about the project’s future. He explained that several unresolved matters have complicated the film’s development.
“That has a lot of other complications, too many complications. I’d need chapters and chapters to talk about it,” Priyadarshan said.
According to reports, the difficulties include legal disputes and personal disagreements involving the project. A reported dispute over the franchise’s rights between producer Firoz Nadiadwala and Seven Arts International also remained unresolved as of March 2026.
The sequel has faced other challenges, including Paresh Rawal’s brief departure from the project before his return. Priyadarshan had also previously stepped away from the director’s role, citing repeated insults from Nadiadwala.
Although the producer has maintained that Hera Pheri 3 remains in development without Priyadarshan, the filmmaker’s latest comments indicate that he is far from confident about its eventual release. Akshay Kumar has also previously expressed uncertainty surrounding the film.
Why Priyadarshan Rejected Bhagam Bhag 2
Priyadarshan’s reluctance to revisit successful films also extends to Bhagam Bhag, the 2006 comedy starring Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal and Govinda.
The director revealed that he turned down Akshay Kumar’s offer to helm a sequel, explaining that he does not want to make a second instalment unless the story can improve upon the original.
“That is why I never do sequels because the reason that you are doing part 2, it should be better than part one, like with the Terminator franchise where part 2 was a better film than part 1,” he explained.
Priyadarshan believes a sequel must have a compelling narrative that justifies its existence. Without a substantially better story, he feels that continuing a successful film series risks weakening the original’s appeal.
He also cautioned against making sequels simply to capitalise on the recognition and commercial value of an earlier hit. For the filmmaker, a follow-up should deliver a worthwhile cinematic experience rather than depend entirely on audience nostalgia.
Priyadarshan’s Upcoming Projects With Akshay Kumar
Despite his reservations about sequels, Priyadarshan continues to work on new projects. His 2026 film Bhooth Bangla found success, while Haiwaan, a Hindi-language neo-noir crime thriller featuring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, was released on September 11, 2026, but performed poorly at the box office.
The filmmaker is also reportedly preparing for his ninth collaboration with Akshay Kumar. The upcoming comedy thriller, backed by Tips and reportedly titled Wicked Sunny, is expected to begin filming by December 2026.
The project highlights Priyadarshan’s continued association with Akshay Kumar, even as he remains selective about returning to established film franchises.
What Priyadarshan’s Comments Mean for Hera Pheri 3
Priyadarshan’s latest remarks have added to the uncertainty surrounding Hera Pheri 3, a sequel that fans have anticipated for years. His comments point to the various complications affecting the project and make it clear that he is no longer involved in its development.
While Firoz Nadiadwala has indicated that the film could move forward without the original director, Priyadarshan’s doubts suggest that significant challenges remain.
For now, there is no certainty about whether Hera Pheri 3 will eventually be made. The director’s comments also reinforce his long-standing preference for strong storytelling over extending successful films merely to capitalise on their popularity.