Hera Pheri Copyright Row Erupts in Bollywood

Producer Firoz Nadiadwala filed a police complaint on April 27, 2026, alleging cheating and defamation. The complaint targets producers Gopala Pillai Vijaykumar and M. Paul Michael, concerning the copyright of the 1989 Malayalam film 'Ramji Rao Speaking.' Nadiadwala legally acquired the Hindi remake rights for Rs 4.50 lakh on March 24, 2000. This acquisition led to the production of the successful Bollywood films 'Hera Pheri' (2000) and 'Phir Hera Pheri' (2006).

Nadiadwala claims that the accused attempted to block the film's release in 2000 and have recently resurfaced with new claims. In December 2025, Nadiadwala received a copyright notice, followed by a petition in the Madras High Court in October 2025 by Vijaykumar asserting fresh ownership. Nadiadwala alleges these claims are fabricated and that the accused demanded Rs 60 lakh and a 25% profit share, while spreading false information.

This ongoing copyright dispute adds significant complications to the anticipated third installment of the franchise, 'Hera Pheri 3,' casting a shadow over its future production and release.