Director Priyadarshan has reacted strongly to Arshad Warsi’s recent remarks about his experience working on the 2004 comedy film Hulchul. The filmmaker said he was shocked and deeply hurt by the actor’s statements.
Priyadarshan described the comments as unexpected and disappointing. He said he could not understand why these issues were being raised after so many years.
Earlier, Arshad Warsi claimed that he was misled about his role in Hulchul. According to him, writer Neeraj Vora had pitched the part as similar to Akshay Kumar’s role in Hera Pheri.
However, Warsi later felt that his character was reduced to playing the lead actor’s friend. He also referred to Hulchul as a flop, which further surprised the director.
Responding to this, Priyadarshan said Warsi never expressed any dissatisfaction during the making of the film or after its release. He added that such concerns were never communicated earlier.
The director recalled that Arshad Warsi had personally called him after Hulchul released. During the call, the actor reportedly expressed happiness over the appreciation he received for his performance.
Priyadarshan also clarified that Hulchul was commercially successful. He stated that the film collected around Rs 31 crore at the box office.
He further pointed out that Warsi’s character, Lucky Bhalla, was well received by audiences. The role continues to remain popular even today.
While acknowledging that Munna Bhai MBBS was a major turning point in Warsi’s career, Priyadarshan said Hulchul also strengthened his comic image.
Concluding his statement, the director said he feels deeply hurt by the allegations. He added that he sees no valid reason for Warsi to complain about the film or his role.
Hulchul remains the only collaboration between Priyadarshan and Arshad Warsi so far.
