Priyadarshan to reunite with Pankaj Tripathi for a full-on comedy
When Paresh Rawal briefly stepped away from Hera Pheri 3, social media suggested Pankaj Tripathi as a possible replacement. Rawal is back in the franchise now, but that internet instinct wasn’t far off — director Priyadarshan is teaming up with Tripathi for a new, untitled comedy, their first collaboration in more than 15 years.
From Aakrosh’s hitman to a lovable comic lead
Priyadarshan remembered their last film together, Aakrosh (2010), where Tripathi played a darker character. This time, Tripathi will inhabit a very different space: “a lovable, comic character” at the heart of a broad situational comedy in the mould of Hungama and Hera Pheri. The director called Tripathi “one of the finest actors we have today” and said it will be a pleasure to work with him again.
What to expect and the production plan
The film is described as an all-out, situational comedy with Tripathi as the pivotal character. Priyadarshan is currently writing the story and plans to finalise two more cast members once the script is locked. If schedules cooperate, he aims to start shooting around May, after completing two releases slated for 2026.
- Bhooth Bangla — a supernatural thriller starring Akshay Kumar, Tabu and Wamiqa Gabbi
- Haiwaan — an action thriller Priyadarshan recently wrapped, featuring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan
Back to comedy after thrillers
Priyadarshan said it feels refreshing to write a comedy after directing an action movie and a psychological thriller. He laughed off the idea of taking a long break, revealing he had this story in mind, narrated it to Pankaj, who liked it — and so the writing began.
Bhagam Bhag 2 rumours and clarity
Meanwhile, talk of Bhagam Bhag 2 continues, with names like Akshay Kumar and Akshaye Khanna being floated. Priyadarshan was clear: he is not associated with that project. Reports suggest Raaj Shaandilyaa may direct the sequel, while Priyadarshan’s next filmed project will be the Tripathi-starrer.
What this means for fans
For fans of Priyadarshan’s comic universe and Pankaj Tripathi’s range, this reunion is intriguing — a chance to see Tripathi flex his comic timing under a director known for crowd-pleasing situational comedies. Expect a light, entertaining ride if the director’s plans fall into place next year.
