In a major development surrounding one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedies, producer Firoz Nadiadwala has filed a police complaint alleging cheating and defamation over the copyright of the Malayalam classic ‘Ramji Rao Speaking’, on which the iconic 2000 film ‘Hera Pheri’ is based. Here is everything you need to know.
Firoz Nadiadwala files FIR at Amboli Police station
According to the Free Press Journal report, film producer Firoz Nadiadwala, 62, has filed a complaint at Amboli police station in Mumbai against producers Gopala Pillai Vijaykumar and M. Paul Michael. Police registered the case on April 27, with the FIR alleging cheating and defamation related to the copyright of the 1989 Malayalam film ‘Ramji Rao Speaking’, on which ‘Hera Pheri’ is based.According to the FIR, producer Nadiadwala, who operates Empire Studio in Andheri West, invested heavily in ‘Hera Pheri’. In 1997, director Priyadarshan brought him the story, after which the film was developed and shot between 1998 and 2000.‘Ramji Rao Speaking’ was originally produced in 1989 under M/s Sarga Chitra, where M. Paul Michael and Siddique KL alias Lal were partners. The remake rights were sold in 1993 to M/s Compact Disc India Limited. Nadiadwala legally acquired those rights on March 24, 2000, for Rs 4.50 lakh, obtaining copyright for Hindi and other languages, excluding southern languages.On the basis of these rights, ‘Hera Pheri’ (2000) and its sequel ‘Phir Hera Pheri’ (2006) were made and went on to become major commercial successes. Nadiadwala stated that no objections were raised for 25 years.
Firoz Nadiadwala reveals receiving legal threats
Firoz Nadiadwala has alleged a pattern of interference dating back to the film’s release. He claimed that in 2000, Michael and Siddique attempted to block the film’s release, “even threatening him through intermediaries and demanding money,” leading him to file a complaint with the commissioner of Mumbai Police on March 21, 2000.The dispute reportedly resurfaced in recent years. In December 2024, Nadiadwala received a copyright notice. Then, in October 2025, Vijaykumar filed a petition in the Madras High Court, claiming fresh ownership of the rights through another company.Calling the claim fabricated, Nadiadwala alleged that the accused “demanded Rs 60 lakh and 25% profit share, while spreading false information using actors’ names.”
More about ‘Hera Pheri 3’
With a third installment, ‘Hera Pheri 3’, long in discussion, the copyright dispute adds fresh complications to the franchise’s future.Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on available police records and public statements. While we strive for accuracy, the legal status of cases can change rapidly as investigations proceed or court rulings are issued. The figures and dates mentioned are sourced from the reported FIR and industry archives. This content is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a final judgment on the guilt or innocence of any parties involved. Readers are encouraged to follow official judicial updates for the most current information.
