Paresh Rawal’s Unexpected Departure Sends Hera Pheri 3 into Chaos

Paresh Rawal’s sudden decision to leave the eagerly awaited comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3 has stunned Bollywood, catching both fans and fellow actors off guard. Rawal, whose portrayal of the bumbling yet endearing Baburao Ganpatrao Apte is synonymous with the franchise, recently confirmed that he has walked away from the project. Rumors immediately swirled that lead actor Akshay Kumar had issued a ₹25 crore legal notice in response to Rawal’s exit—allegations both Rawal and Kumar have yet to address publicly.

Priyadarshan Left in the Dark

Veteran director Priyadarshan, who helmed the original Hera Pheri films, admitted he was blindsided by Rawal’s decision. Speaking to the Hindustan Times, director Priyadarshan admitted that neither he nor the production team received any prior warning about Rawal’s plans. “I have no idea why this occurred since Paresh never mentioned it,” he said, noting that Rawal and Suniel Shetty had both confirmed their participation in the film. Priyadarshan also noted that Akshay Kumar, who’s financing the project, may have pursued legal recourse to protect his financial stake: “I have nothing to lose, but Akshay’s investment could explain why he’s taking this step".

Suniel Shetty’s Shock and Unanswered Questions

Suniel Shetty—returning as Raju—voiced his shock and disappointment at Rawal’s decision to bow out. Speaking to India Today, Shetty admitted he was completely unaware of Rawal’s plans to exit and had even participated in shooting a promotional sequence for the film. “This is absolutely shocking. I first thought about texting him, and then I thought I’d meet him and discuss it. I have had no word about it with anybody as to what happened,” Shetty said, underscoring the lack of communication within the cast.

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Paresh Rawal Clarifies His Position

In a statement released via Twitter on May 18, Rawal sought to quell speculation about creative differences. In a public statement, Rawal stressed that his departure “was not driven by creative differences,” while affirming his “deep admiration, respect, and trust in Mr. Priyadarshan". Yet, he did not elaborate on the real reasons behind his decision, leaving producers and audiences to wonder whether contract disputes, scheduling conflicts, or personal considerations played a role.

Project Status Uncertain

Hera Pheri 3, a sequel more than two decades in the making, had already generated considerable buzz, fueled by nostalgia for the original films. Akshay Kumar’s acquisition of the franchise rights from producer Feroz Nadiadwala signaled a renewed commitment to reviving the beloved trilogy. With Rawal’s exit, however, the project’s future hangs in the balance. Producers face the daunting task of recasting Baburao or convincing Rawal to return—either option threatens to delay production significantly.

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At present, no official statements have been issued regarding a replacement for Rawal or revised production timelines. Until then, Hera Pheri 3 remains mired in uncertainty, its fate tied to resolving one of Bollywood’s most unexpected off-screen dramas in recent memory.