In the world of Indian cinema, few directors have mastered the art of the ensemble comedy quite like Priyadarshan. From Hera Pheri to Hungama, his filmography is a staple of Bollywood nostalgia. However, a recent wave of tension has emerged between the veteran filmmaker and actor Arshad Warsi, following Warsi’s candid remarks about his time filming the 2004 hit, Hulchul.
The controversy began when Arshad Warsi, known for his blunt honesty, labeled his experience on the set of Hulchul as “bad.” Warsi suggested that the film didn’t go the way he expected and that he felt somewhat dissatisfied with the creative process and his role within the massive ensemble cast.
For Priyadarshan, these comments weren’t just a critique of a movie—they felt like a personal blow. The director expressed that he was “deeply hurt” by the statements, largely because he remembers the production as a successful effort that helped cement Warsi’s reputation as a top-tier comic actor during that era.
Priyadarshan’s hurt stems from a few key perspectives as Hulchul was a massive box-office hit and remains a beloved favorite on television. To hear a lead actor call it a “bad experience” feels like a dismissal of the hard work put in by the entire crew and the joy it brought to audiences.
In the industry, veteran directors often value a level of “old-school” loyalty. Priyadarshan felt that if Arshad had issues, they should have been discussed privately at the time, rather than shared in a public forum decades later.
Priyadarshan believes the role of Lucky in Hulchul actually showcased Arshad’s incredible range and timing, making the actor’s current disdain for the project even more confusing for him.
This situation highlights the gap between a director’s vision and an actor’s personal journey. While Priyadarshan sees a completed masterpiece that became a cult classic, Arshad Warsi is likely remembering the day-to-day struggles on set—perhaps feeling his character lacked the depth he desired or that the fast-paced nature of a Priyadarshan shoot was frustrating.
“I have never had anyone say this to me before,” Priyadarshan reportedly noted, emphasizing how much he prides himself on the atmosphere of his film sets.
It is rare to see Priyadarshan speak out so emotionally about an actor’s feedback. Usually known for his calm and prolific nature, his reaction shows how much he values the “family-like” environment he tries to build. For a filmmaker who has given the industry so many iconic moments, hearing a “negative review” from one of his own stars clearly stung.
As of now, fans remain divided. Some support Arshad for his bravery in being honest about his career lows, while others stand with Priyadarshan, arguing that Hulchul is a comedy gem that shouldn’t be discredited by those who helped create it. To know such latest updates tuned to tellyboosters.com Thank you!

