The controversy surrounding Hera Pheri 3 has taken another turn after Akshay Kumar's production company issued a public legal notice asserting exclusive rights over the much-awaited film.
The development comes shortly after director Priyadarshan announced his exit from the project amid an ongoing legal dispute.
Akshay Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films LLP, has issued a legal notice declaring itself the sole and exclusive holder of the rights to commercially produce and exploit Hera Pheri 3.
According to reports, the notice was addressed to distributors, exhibitors, cinema chains, OTT platforms, television broadcasters, digital platforms, advertisers, licensors, licensees, aggregators, syndicators and other stakeholders in the entertainment industry.
The company stated that it holds an "irrevocable, worldwide perpetual, and unencumbered licence" to produce, distribute, market and commercialise the film across all platforms and formats.
Warning issued against third-party deals
The production house cautioned all individuals and organisations against entering into any agreement, negotiation or transaction with third parties claiming rights related to Hera Pheri 3 without its prior written approval.
The notice further warned that any party ignoring the advisory could face legal consequences.
The latest legal move follows director Priyadarshan's decision to step away from the project.
His exit added to the uncertainty surrounding Hera Pheri 3, which has already witnessed several setbacks, including Paresh Rawal's brief departure before rejoining the cast.
Akshay earlier acquired franchise rights
Earlier this year, Priyadarshan had confirmed that Akshay Kumar purchased the rights to the entire Hera Pheri franchise from producer Firoz Nadiadwala for ₹10 crore.
Speaking to Mid-Day, the filmmaker said the acquisition covered not only Hera Pheri 3 but the entire franchise, adding that he had personally seen the legal documentation.
Despite the ongoing legal developments, Hera Pheri 3 is still expected to reunite Akshay Kumar with longtime co-stars Paresh Rawal and Suniel Shetty.
However, uncertainty remains over the film's production following Priyadarshan's departure and the continuing legal dispute involving producer Firoz Nadiadwala.
