Mumbai, May 2: Film producer-director Firoz Nadiadwala has lodged a fraud complaint at the Amboli police station in Mumbai regarding the copyright and remake rights of his hit film ‘Hera Pheri’. He alleges that certain individuals conspired to usurp his legal rights and extort millions from him.
Nadiadwala informed the police that the 2000 film ‘Hera Pheri’ is based on the Malayalam film ‘Ramji Rao Speaking’ (1989). He purchased the Hindi and other language (excluding South Indian languages) remake rights for ₹4,50,000 from Suresh Kumar Singhal of M/s Compact Disc India Limited in 2000.
According to Nadiadwala, just seven days before the film’s release, some individuals attempted to extort money from him under duress. At that time, significant investments had already been made in the film, and fearing defamation and financial loss, he was compelled to pay, even though the court had issued a stay order in his favor. Now, 25 years later, a new conspiracy has emerged.
The complaint states that the original Malayalam film owners, Siddique K.L. and M. Paul Michael, sold the rights to Gopala Pillai Vijayakumar (M/s Seven Arts International) for just ₹3 lakh on May 12, 2022, despite knowing that the rights had already been sold.
In December 2024, Nadiadwala received a legal notice declaring his film ‘Phir Hera Pheri’ (2006) illegal. The opposing party demanded ₹60 lakh and 25% of the total profits from the film.
Nadiadwala also alleged that these individuals are obstructing the public listing process of his company. He claimed that the names of major artists like Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Paresh Rawal are being misused to spread false news against him, causing significant damage to his professional reputation.
The police have registered a case against Gopala Pillai Vijayakumar and M. Paul Michael under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) based on Nadiadwala’s complaint. The police are now investigating the matter further and will soon call all relevant parties for questioning.
My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
