While the "Khiladi" is currently celebrating the solid opening of his horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla, he delivered a disappointing "reality check" regarding the cult franchise's third installment.
The Update: "Not Happening for Now"
When asked point-blank about the status of the film, Akshay Kumar was direct:
The Quote: "Hera Pheri 3 abhi filhaal toh nahi ban rahi (The film is not happening as of now)," he stated.
The Timeline: He clarified that the project has entered an official production halt and will not go on floors for at least the next twelve months.
The "Age" Concern: With a touch of his signature humor, he added, "It will happen when the time is right. I just hope we are not too old by then!"
Why the Delay? Legal and "Agreement" Issues
Despite producer Firoz Nadiadwala reportedly regaining certain rights last year, the film is currently "stuck in development hell" due to several external factors:
Copyright Disputes: A South-based production house, Seven Arts International, has filed a major lawsuit in the Madras High Court claiming Firoz Nadiadwala does not hold the franchise rights.
Music Rights Clash: T-Series head Bhushan Kumar has also made a public claim to the film’s music rights, further complicating the pre-production process.
Unspoken Agreements: Akshay hinted at "behind-the-scenes complications" and legal agreements that he cannot discuss on camera but which continue to push the project back.
'Hera Pheri 3' Current Status Snapshot
Feature Current Reality Director Priyadarshan (Reportedly attached, but script is on hold) Cast Status Akshay, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal are on board. Filming Postponed; will not start in 2026. Main Hurdle Multiple IP and Copyright lawsuits in high courts.
No Rift Between the Trio
Crucially, Akshay put to rest any rumours of a fallout between the lead actors.
Still Together: He pointed out that all three—Akshay, Suniel, and Paresh—are currently working together on another massive project, 'Welcome to the Jungle' (Welcome 3).
The Bond: "It’s not about us not coming together; we are already shooting together. It’s the legalities of the 'Hera Pheri' brand that are the issue," he clarified.
SantaBanta Verdict:
For fans, this news is a "double-edged sword." While it’s heartening to know the original trio is still committed to the project, the legal "gridlock" means we shouldn't expect Hera Pheri 3 before 2028. It seems that even with the universe of Bhooth Bangla and Welcome 3 bringing the legends together, the "Raju-Baburao-Shyam" magic is currently trapped in a courtroom rather than a film set.
