Hera Pheri 3 to Start Filming Feb-March 2026

Hera Pheri 3 Finally Gets Green Light: Filming to Kick Off in February 2026

MUMBAI – September 15, 2025 - After years of speculation, setbacks, and a rollercoaster of emotions for fans, the most anticipated comedy franchise in Bollywood is officially back. Producers have confirmed that Hera Pheri 3 will finally begin filming in February 2026, marking the long-awaited return of the iconic trio: Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal. The news has sent a wave of excitement across social media, with fans celebrating the reunion of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao. The project, which has been in development hell for nearly a decade, is now on a definitive track to bring the beloved characters back to the big screen.

The Long Road to Revival

The journey of Hera Pheri 3 has been a saga in itself, almost as comedic and chaotic as the films it follows. The first hint of a third installment came shortly after the release of Phir Hera Pheri in 2006. Initial plans were announced, but the project stalled due to various production and casting issues. Over the years, countless rumors surfaced: a change in the lead cast, a different director, and multiple scripts being developed and scrapped. At one point, fans had almost given up hope.

The primary hurdle was the alignment of the three main stars. Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal are three of the busiest actors in the industry, and finding a common shooting schedule was a monumental task. Furthermore, the immense fan pressure to get the story and the comedic timing right added to the challenge. Producer Firoz Nadiadwala has been vocal about his desire to do justice to the franchise, stating that a subpar script would not see the light of day. This commitment to quality, while frustrating for fans at times, is what ultimately led to a script that all three actors have reportedly greenlit with immense enthusiasm.

The Return of the Original Trio

The core of the Hera Pheri franchise has always been the undeniable chemistry between Akshay Kumar’s street-smart Raju, Suniel Shetty’s sincere and grounded Shyam, and Paresh Rawal’s hilarious and eccentric Baburao. Their banter, their slapstick comedy, and their ability to bring a genuine heart to their characters is what turned the series into a cult classic.

• Akshay Kumar as Raju: The mischievous leader of the group, known for his quick wit and get-rich-quick schemes. Kumar's return is a major coup for the film.
• Suniel Shetty as Shyam: The calm and composed voice of reason, often dragged into Raju's schemes. Shetty’s performance is a fan favorite for its sincerity.
• Paresh Rawal as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte: The perpetually confused, hard-of-hearing landlord who provides the majority of the film’s laughs. Rawal’s portrayal is a masterclass in comedy.

The combination of these three actors is a guaranteed recipe for box office success and a perfect reunion for fans. Their on-screen relationship is so strong that it feels like a real-life friendship, which makes the comedy feel natural and effortless.

What to Expect from the New Plot

While the plot details are being kept under wraps, sources close to the production have revealed that the film will retain the core essence of the original franchise: a mix of situational comedy, mistaken identity, and a chase for a get-rich-quick scheme. The film will reportedly feature the three protagonists in a new, high-stakes situation that forces them into a series of hilarious misadventures.

The script is being written by a new team of writers who have reportedly captured the unique comedic timing and dialogues that were the hallmark of the first two films. The new director, whose name has not yet been officially announced, is said to be a veteran of the comedy genre, and is committed to preserving the film's nostalgic feel while giving it a modern twist. The film will also be a contemporary take on the original, with references to today's social and financial climate, making it relatable to a new generation of audiences.

Filming Schedule and Production Details

The official filming will begin in February 2026 and is expected to take place in a number of Indian cities, including Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi. The production team has been scouting for locations that capture the classic "Hera Pheri" feel, with its blend of urban chaos and rural charm. The film will be shot on a large scale, with a bigger budget than the previous installments, allowing for more elaborate action sequences and grander comedic set pieces.

The producers are aiming for a theatrical release in late 2026 or early 2027. The immense anticipation surrounding the film has already created a buzz in the distribution and exhibition circuits, with many predicting that Hera Pheri 3 will be one of the biggest blockbusters of the year.

The Fan Factor: Social Media Goes Wild

The news of the filming has led to an explosion of fan-created content on social media platforms. From memes and fan art to nostalgic video compilations, the excitement is palpable. The #HeraPheri3 hashtag has been trending for the past 24 hours, with fans expressing their joy and sharing their favorite moments from the previous films.

One fan, a popular content creator on YouTube, shared, "This is not just a film; it's a part of our childhood. We've been waiting for this for so long. The return of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao is the best news of the year." Another fan on Twitter simply wrote, "I can't wait to see Baburao again. Paresh Rawal is a legend, and no one can replace him."

The immense love and loyalty from the fans is a testament to the timeless appeal of the Hera Pheri franchise. The pressure is on the production team to deliver a film that lives up to the expectations.

The Legacy of Hera Pheri

The first Hera Pheri film, released in 2000, was a sleeper hit that gained cult status over the years. Directed by the legendary Priyadarshan, the film was a masterclass in situational comedy, with a witty script and pitch-perfect performances from the cast. Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, also did well at the box office, further solidifying the franchise's place in Bollywood history.

The dialogues from the films have become a part of pop culture, with lines like “Utha Le Re Baba” and “Mera to life hi jhand ho gaya” being used in everyday conversations. The characters are so well-defined that they feel like old friends. The films are a staple of Indian television, with re-runs attracting millions of viewers.

The revival of Hera Pheri 3 is not just about making another film; it’s about continuing a legacy. It's a tribute to the power of a good comedy and the magic of three actors who can make you laugh until you cry. The wait has been long, but with filming confirmed to start in February 2026, the journey to the big screen has finally begun.