Priyadarshan reacts to Arshad Warsi’s Hulchul comment, says ‘He had no reason to complain’

Priyadarshan slams Arshad Warsi

• Arshad Warsi said he was promised a bigger role in Hulchul than he got
• Director Priyadarshan expressed shock and sadness over Arshad's comments
• Priyadarshan's Haiwaan, starring Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar, releases in 2026.

Did our AI summary help?

Priyadarshan's Hulchul is still one of the most beloved comedies. Despite being the fans’ favourite cult classic film, it has become embroiled in a new controversy years after its premiere.

Actor Arshad Warsi recently called his time working on Hulchul ‘bad,’ saying he was promised a much larger role than what he really played.

However, director Priyadarshan has now expressed his disappointment in response to Arshad's comments. He admitted that he was shocked by the charges and saddened after reading Arshad's remarks.

In an interview with Mid-Day, Priyadarshan said, “I was very upset when I read what he said. I could be wrong and maybe it has been misinterpreted, but if he has complained, I am shocked.”

The filmmaker said, “After the release, he called and told me, ‘Priyan sir, I never thought that I would get this kind of appreciation’. Why would he say that when it was one of my hit films? I am very upset and deeply hurt by these accusations from Arshad. He had no reason to complain.”

The director recalled speaking with Arshad following the movie's premiere and said the actor had complimented his performance. He continued by saying that although Hulchul was a box office hit, Arshad later called it a failure, which pained him a great deal.

In a previous interview with The Lallantop, Arshad Warsi expressed his disappointment with the film. He talked about understanding the distinction between playing a more supporting role and being portrayed as the story's main friend.

Also Read: Team Peddi wishes ‘Isai Puyal’ A.R. Rahman on his birthday, teases musical magic with Chikiri Chikiri

He clarified, “We reached the set and it felt like a shock. I don’t think Priyadarshan was aware of it. It’s not his fault.”

Both the filmmaker and the artist have a full slate of upcoming films, despite the current dispute.

Priyadarshan is preparing for the 2026 release of Haiwaan, which stars Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar. The film is a remake of a Malayalam success and represents the director's reunion with big stars.