The road to Hera Pheri 3 seems to be getting longer. Akshay Kumar has now confirmed that the much-anticipated third instalment of the cult comedy franchise has been put on hold for nearly a year, adding to the uncertainty that has surrounded the project for months.
Speaking candidly in a recent podcast with Subhankar Mishra, Akshay admitted that the delay came as a surprise even to him. “Hera Pheri 3 abhi filhaal toh nahi ban rahi,” he said, adding that he himself was taken aback by the development. Maintaining his trademark humour, the actor joked that he might have to “read mantras” to ensure things fall into place.
Akshay revealed that the film is unlikely to move forward for at least a year, citing multiple unresolved issues. While he refrained from sharing specifics, he hinted at internal complications, including agreements and behind-the-scenes challenges that have slowed progress.
Importantly, he clarified that the delay has nothing to do with the core cast. The iconic trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—remain willing to reunite. In fact, Akshay pointed out that the three are already working together on Welcome to the Jungle, dismissing rumours of fallout among the actors.
Adding another layer to the film’s troubled journey, Paresh Rawal had earlier announced his exit from Hera Pheri 3. However, he was quick to clarify that his decision was not due to creative disagreements with director Priyadarshan. In a statement, the veteran actor emphasised his respect and faith in Priyadarshan, indicating that his departure stemmed from other factors rather than differences over the film’s vision.
The film has also been entangled in legal issues. A Chennai-based production house, Seven Arts International Limited, filed a copyright infringement suit against producer Firoz Nadiadwala in the Madras High Court, claiming ownership of the Hera Pheri franchise. Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar’s production house has maintained that the rights were acquired from Nadiadwala under the assumption that he was the legitimate owner. These disputes have further complicated the film’s progress.
The original Hera Pheri introduced audiences to the unforgettable trio of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao Ganpatrao Apte—characters that have since become synonymous with Bollywood comedy. Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, only strengthened its cult following. Given this legacy, expectations for the third instalment remain sky-high, making every update—especially delays—a major talking point among fans.
For now, Hera Pheri 3 remains in limbo. Akshay Kumar’s remarks suggest that the film will only move forward once the ongoing issues are resolved. As he put it, the project will take shape “when the time is right”—though he humorously added that he hopes it happens before the cast grows too old.
Despite the uncertainty, audience interest in the franchise remains unwavering. Whether the delay results in a more refined and worthy sequel is something only time will tell. On the work front, Akshay Kumar’s latest release, Bhooth Bangla, is currently running in theatres.
