Mumbai (National Times): It’s been just over a week since Paresh Rawal dropped a bombshell, he’s no longer part of Hera Pheri 3. The announcement sent shockwaves across Bollywood, especially given the fanfare around the original trio, Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Suniel Shetty, returning for the much-anticipated third installment of the beloved comedy franchise. But with Rawal’s abrupt exit, the dream reunion began to unravel, sparking legal threats, public statements, and a growing sense of uncertainty.
Why Paresh Rawal Walked Away
On May 16, Rawal revealed he had stepped away from Hera Pheri 3, stating that the role “wasn’t something he wanted to pursue anymore.” He hasn’t elaborated much beyond that, choosing to keep the reasons for his exit mostly private.
Legal Drama Unfolds: Akshay Kumar’s Camp Responds
Soon after Rawal’s exit, media reports claimed that Akshay Kumar, both star and producer of the film, was preparing legal action. According to Pooja Tidke, a legal representative for Kumar’s production house, Rawal had clearly indicated his commitment to the film via a social media post in January, and formal contracts had followed. Tidke told PTI that even a 3.5-minute segment of the film had already been shot.
“We’ve incurred significant costs on casting, crew, senior actors, logistics, and even a trailer shoot,” Tidke said. She emphasized that Rawal’s departure had serious contractual implications.
Paresh Rawal’s Side of the Story
A source close to the veteran actor disputed many of these claims. “To call someone like Paresh Rawal ‘unprofessional’ is absurd,” the source told Hindustan Times. “No actual filming took place, just a promo shoot. The main production was scheduled for next year. He didn’t walk out midway; he opted out before things even began.”
On May 25, Rawal tweeted a brief update: “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest.” He also returned his signing fee, along with 15% interest.
Where Do Suniel Shetty and Priyadarshan Stand?
Suniel Shetty, the third pillar of the original cast, expressed disappointment over Rawal’s departure. Speaking to PTI while promoting Kesari Veer, he said, “I was heartbroken. I still believe things will work out. I just hope there’s no bad blood between Akshay and Paresh. I learned about this only through the media.”
Director Priyadarshan, who returned to helm Hera Pheri 3, said he was blindsided by the decision. “I have no idea why Paresh left. Akshay specifically asked me to confirm with both him and Suniel before we began. They both agreed,” he told HT. “Akshay has invested money, so maybe that’s why he’s reacting this way. Paresh hasn’t spoken to me even now.”
In a Mid-Day interview, Priyadarshan shared a poignant detail: “Akshay had tears in his eyes when he asked me, ‘Priyan, why is Paresh doing this to us?’”
Is Hera Pheri 3 Still Happening?
The original Hera Pheri (2000) became a cult classic, with its 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri also enjoying box office success. Attempts to make Hera Pheri 3 have been plagued by delays, even starting production in 2016 before being shelved after director Neeraj Vora’s death.
The recent reboot, with the original cast and Priyadarshan back at the helm, was seen as a revival. Now, with Rawal stepping away, the project hangs in limbo. Given the iconic status of his character, Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, industry insiders suggest that neither Akshay nor Priyadarshan is likely to proceed without him.
Suniel Shetty remains hopeful, but at this point, only reconciliation can save Hera Pheri 3 from another trip to development hell.
