Priyadarshan addresses Hera Pheri 3 controversy: 'I am only committed to Akshay Kumar…'

Addressing the ongoing Hera Pheri 3 controversy, filmmaker Priyadarshan confirmed that the original cast, featuring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, has reunited, with all previous disagreements now resolved.

Following months of speculation sparked by Paresh Rawal's initial departure due to creative differences, the veteran actor has confirmed his return to the franchise, reprising his iconic role as Baburao, adding a new chapter to the Hera Pheri 3 narrative.

Director Priyadarshan has clarified his position to HT City, stating that he was not involved in the behind-the-scenes developments of Hera Pheri 3. "I am living in South India, whenever a film is signed, I will go to shoot it. I am only committed to Akshay Kumar to do this film (as a maker), I don’t know anybody else," he said.

“You won’t see a single comment of mine on the whole issue till today. I don’t believe in the politics of cinema. Suniel, Akshay and Paresh are my best friends. There was a difference of opinion between them that has been sorted out. This is all I know. I don’t think anybody else is involved in it," the filmmaker added.

Quashing rumors of alternative casting, he further elaborated on the project, “Akshay, Paresh and Suniel told me we all discussed and have decided to do the film; it has nothing to do with any other individual. Somebody is saying so and so is involved, but there’s nothing. To the best of my knowledge, the three actors decided to do the film and informed me."

Regarding the timeline for the sequel, Priyadarshan mentioned that he recently completed Bhooth Bangla with Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal, and has another project with Akshay and Saif Ali Khan scheduled. He confirmed that Hera Pheri 3 is likely to commence filming next year.

Speaking to NDTV earlier, Paresh Rawal had said, “Happy to be back with the family. Humbled by the overwhelming love and respect of the fans and well-wishers." He had returned Rs 11 lakh with 15% interest to Akshay Kumar’s production house to settle the earlier disagreement.

The controversy surrounding Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal has been prominent since Rawal's decision to exit the highly anticipated "Hera Pheri 3." In an interview with Lallantop, Paresh Rawal characterized his cherished "Hera Pheri" role as a "gale ka fanda," indicating his wish to develop beyond it rather than be typecast.

Following Paresh Rawal's public withdrawal, tensions escalated when Akshay Kumar filed a lawsuit. In response, Rawal returned the signing amount with interest, intensifying their discord. Despite their strained relationship, Akshay and Paresh recently completed filming Priyadarshan’s horror-comedy, Bhoot Bangla. Reports suggest a relationship far removed from their previous camaraderie.

Hera Pheri 3, the anticipated sequel to the 2000 hit Hera Pheri, with its second installment in 2006, was initially announced in 2023. Earlier this year, Priyadarshan was confirmed to direct the film.