Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Priyadarshan Says Hera Pheri Made His Life Miserable
Priyadarshan directed the popular movie Hera Pheri in 2000.
Many Bollywood fans consider it one of his best films.
However, he said making it made his life difficult.
He also said he does not enjoy filming comedies.
Over time, he began using humor that comes from situations and serious characters.
He prefers this to constant jokes, gags, or funny facial expressions.
Priyadarshan will not direct the planned Hera Pheri 3.
He said legal problems could keep the third movie from happening.
Priyadarshan said Hera Pheri made his life “miserable” and that he dislikes shooting comedies.
The 2000 film, starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Tabu, changed his Bollywood career.
He said his approach has shifted from jokes and gags toward situational humor and story-driven comedy.
Priyadarshan said he does not like actors making exaggerated facial expressions or relying on comedy tracks.
He is no longer directing Hera Pheri 3 and said legal troubles may prevent the sequel from being made.
- Who
- Director Priyadarshan, along with the cast of Hera Pheri, including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Tabu.
- What
- Priyadarshan discussed his dislike of shooting comedies, his evolving style of humor and his departure from Hera Pheri 3.
- When
- He made the comments in a recent Hindustan Times interview; Haiwaan is scheduled for September 11.
- Where
- The discussion concerned Priyadarshan’s Bollywood work and the Hera Pheri franchise.
- Why
- He said making many films in the same genre made him want a change, while legal troubles surround Hera Pheri 3.
Priyadarshan’s View
Fans’ View
Hera Pheri’s legacy
Priyadarshan’s View
Priyadarshan said the film made his life “miserable” and contributed to him being associated primarily with comedy.
Fans’ View
The article says many Bollywood fans regard Hera Pheri as his tour de force and one of his most notable films.
Comedy style
Priyadarshan’s View
Priyadarshan prefers situational humor, story-driven comedy and serious characters rather than repeated gags or exaggerated performances.
Fans’ View
His comedic films, including Hera Pheri, have made him widely regarded as an influential comedy filmmaker.
Hera Pheri 3
Priyadarshan’s View
Priyadarshan is no longer involved and said legal troubles could prevent the sequel from becoming reality.
Fans’ View
The planned third installment had previously been expected to return with Priyadarshan directing.
- Film discussed
- Hera Pheri
- Release year
- 2000
- Director
- Priyadarshan
- Original film
- Ramji Rao Speaking (1989)
- Priyadarshan’s preferred approach
- Situational humor combined with story and serious characters
- Hera Pheri 3 status
- Priyadarshan is no longer attached, and he said legal troubles may prevent it from being made
- Upcoming release
- Haiwaan, scheduled for September 11