The Hera Pheri franchise, starring Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, holds a special place in the hearts of Bollywood fans. Since the release of the first film in 2000 and the sequel Phir Hera Pheri in 2006, fans have eagerly awaited the third part. Over the years, there have been several reports and rumors surrounding Hera Pheri 3, but no concrete updates have been provided until recently. Director Raj Shandilya was approached to helm the third part, but things didn’t go as expected.
Director Raj Shandilya Refuses ‘Hera Pheri 3’ Offer, Cites Script Concerns
Raj Shandilya, known for his work in the comedy genre, recently revealed in an interview with Bollywood Hungama that he was offered the directorial responsibility for Hera Pheri 3. Despite the excitement surrounding the project, Raj did not feel confident about the script. “The producers approached me to direct Hera Pheri 3, but I didn’t connect with the story,” he said. “After waiting so many years for the third part, I believe it’s better to wait a little more until we have a solid concept.”
Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Paresh Rawal Personally Reached Out
Raj also mentioned that after the producers, the lead trio—Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—personally requested him to take on the project. However, he stood firm in his decision, explaining that he would only direct Hera Pheri 3 if they could come up with a fresh and unique script. “This is Hera Pheri 3,” Raj said. “I won’t touch this project unless we find a great concept. It’s important to honor the legacy of the franchise.”
Raj expressed that he would love to work with Akshay Kumar in the future but emphasized that the project must be something unique for both him and Akshay. “Akshay Sir keeps telling me to work on a film with him, but I want it to be something neither of us has done before,” Raj added.
Raj Shandilya’s Upcoming Projects: Comedy and Sequels
While Hera Pheri 3 is on hold for Raj, he is currently working on another comedy film titled Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, which stars Rajkummar Rao and Tripti Dimri in lead roles. The film is set to release on October 11 and has already created a buzz. Some speculated that the movie is a remake of the Hollywood film Sex Tape (2014). However, Raj dismissed these rumors, clarifying that his film is an original work and not inspired by any Hollywood movie.
Interestingly, Raj is also planning a sequel to the Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video. He shared that the story for the next part is already being written and will be set 10 to 15 years ahead of the first film. The story of the sequel will pick up from where the original ends. While Raj is currently busy with other commitments, he intends to focus on this sequel after wrapping up his ongoing projects.
What’s Next for ‘Hera Pheri 3’?
The fate of Hera Pheri 3 remains uncertain, with Raj Shandilya putting his directorial involvement on hold until a better concept is found. Fans of the franchise will need to wait longer, but there’s hope that the third part will live up to the high expectations. With Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Paresh Rawal eager to reprise their roles, all that’s needed is the right story to bring the iconic trio back to the big screen.
