Fans have been eagerly awaiting an update on the cult comedy franchise Hera Pheri and the excitement has only grown following the confirmation earlier this year that filmmaker Priyadarshan will return to direct the third instalment. In a recent update, the 68-year-old filmmaker shared that he plans to start writing Hera Pheri 3 sometime next year.

However, we’ve exclusively learnt that the first scene of the film, starring the original cast — actors Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal — was shot on April 3.A source close to the production confirmed the news, saying, “Yes, it’s true. The first scene was indeed shot today with Akshay, Suniel, and Paresh, who will be bringing back the memories of their iconic roles.”

Speaking about the challenge ahead, Priyadarshan had earlier stated, “It is going to be very challenging to make the third part because there will be too many expectations. Characters have gotten older and accordingly people should believe…these are important things. I am taking it as a challenge.”

This much-awaited third instalment comes 19 years after Phir Hera Pheri (2006) and 24 years after the original Hera Pheri (2000).