The highly awaited Bollywood comedy Hera Pheri 3, starring Akshay Kumar, now faces a fresh legal battle that could affect its future. The sequel — which many fans have been waiting for since the success of Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006) has encountered a copyright and rights ownership dispute in the Madras High Court. The case involves a South Indian production house claiming it owns the franchise rights, challenging producer Firoz Nadiadwala’s authority to make the third film. This has cast doubt over whether the film can legally move forward without settling the dispute.
Hera Pheri 3 Franchise Rights: How the Dispute Started
According to sources, Seven Arts International Limited, a production company from South India, has filed a petition in the Madras High Court stating that it owns the full rights to the Hera Pheri franchise. The company argues that: Nadiadwala was originally authorized only to produce the Hindi remake of the Malayalam hit Ramji Rao Speaking — which became Hera Pheri in 2000. Phir Hera Pheri (2006) and now Hera Pheri 3 were never part of his authorized rights. Despite this, Nadiadwala later sold the rights to Akshay Kumar’s production banner. The petition claims the alleged copyright breach and unlawful transfer of franchise rights have forced Seven Arts International to approach the court to prevent unauthorized use.
Hera Pheri 3 caught in copyright row; Akshay Kumar’s production house claims lack of clarity on rights - The Indian Express https://t.co/N6bjmW5l5p
— patesalo (@patesalo_e) February 7, 2026
What Does This Mean for the Film’s Future?
This dispute has created uncertainty around the film’s release. The Madras High Court is currently reviewing the petition, meaning the production could be paused or delayed until the matter is resolved legally. Industry insiders say that if the court finds irregularities in rights ownership, the film might need fresh agreements or permission from the rightful rights holders before shooting and release can proceed. This development comes after Hera Pheri 3 had already faced earlier complications — including a brief split between Akshay Kumar and co‑star Paresh Rawal, which was later resolved before the rights dispute surfaced.
Behind the Court Case: What Seven Arts Claims
Seven Arts International says:
- It bought all rights from the original Malayalam production company, Adithya Films, in 2022.
- Nadiadwala was only ever licensed to make one Hindi remake, not the sequels.
- They claim they had no choice but to sue when they discovered the rights were sold without proper authority.
The case now focuses on whether past films violated copyright terms, and whether Hera Pheri 3 can proceed without acknowledging true rights holders.
Future of Hera Pheri 3 as Court Reviews Franchise Rights
Experts expect the court to:
- Hear both sides in the coming weeks
- Analyze original contracts and rights transfers
- Decide whether production can legally continue under Nadiadwala or if Seven Arts should be acknowledged as the rightful owners
Until then, production activities are likely to remain on hold.
How This Affects Bollywood and Film Rights in India
This case could spark wider discussions on:
- Franchise rights in India’s film industry
- Clear ownership documentation for remakes and sequels
- How old contracts affect modern productions
If the court rules in favor of Seven Arts, many producers might re‑evaluate how they acquire and transfer film rights, especially for legacy franchises.
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