Filmmaker Priyadarshan has offered several rib-tickling comedies throughout his career but the director says he feels sad over the state of comedy movies today.

Known for helming blockbusters like "Hera Pheri", "Garam Masala", "Malamaal Weekly", "Bhagam Bhaag", Priyadarshan says comedy in films has been reduced to mere antics of mocking.

"There is a huge scarcity of good comedy films today. What I see is total buffoonery being passed as 'comedy'. I don't believe in the comedy which relies heavily on just making faces and mocking," Priyadarshan told PTI.

The 59-year-old director said he has consciously avoided using crass dialogues in his comedies as films are meant to be watched by a family audience.

"I have always stayed away from double meaning, crass and vulgar dialogues in my films. I don't believe in them. And hence, I feel sad when I see the state of comedy films," the "Hungama" director said.

"There is a certain social value associated with comedy films. You should make films which children can enjoy with their parents. There should be quality comedy," he added.

Priyadarshan, whose last Hindi film was "Rangeezz" in 2013, will start his new comedy film featuring Akshay Kumar and produced by Rohit Shetty.

"The project got slightly delayed because Akshay is busy with other films. I am in no rush. I am coming back after a long gap in a positive way. Other cast members will be finalised soon," he said.

"I can easily say it is going to be one of my best comedy films yet. The film will have organic, situational comedy," Priyadarshan added.

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