Akshay Kumar considers legal action after Paresh Rawal exits Hera Pheri 3, a move that has left the film’s cast and crew in turmoil and placed the project’s future in jeopardy. The unexpected departure occurred just before final production stages, compelling Akshay Kumar, also a producer, to reportedly pursue a ₹25 crore lawsuit against Rawal.
Paresh Rawal’s Departure Leaves the Team in Shock
Paresh Rawal, celebrated for portraying Babu Bhaiyya, startled both fans and the Hera Pheri 3 production team by officially announcing he would not reprise his iconic role. Filmmaker Priyadarshan, known for his collaborations with Akshay Kumar and Rawal, expressed deep disappointment, revealing he was completely unaware of Rawal’s intention to quit until the news was made public. The director highlighted how closely the team had worked together recently, especially during the shooting of Bhooth Bangla with Akshay Kumar as late as last week.
“I am very hurt and shocked, as Paresh didn’t inform any of us. He could have picked up the phone and told me before telling the media because we’ve been friends for years. Until last week, we shot Bhooth Bangla together with Akshay.”
—Priyadarshan, Director
Akshay Kumar’s Legal Move: Seeking Damages
With the sudden void created by Rawal’s absence, Akshay Kumar, who invests significantly in the franchise both as a lead actor and producer, is reportedly seeking ₹25 crore in damages. His motivations stem from the potential disruption in production plans, risk to investments, and difficulties in marketing the sequel to Hera Pheri. Reports suggest that the legal claim aims to recover anticipated losses caused by Rawal’s abrupt, uncommunicated exit. Akshay Kumar reportedly has the franchise rights after the team’s unanimous agreement to proceed with the film, underscoring his stake in its smooth execution.
The sense of betrayal and confusion is palpable, given the personal and professional ties among Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, Priyadarshan, and Suniel Shetty. The cast recently completed a notable scene and filmed a teaser with the IPL, further fueling surprise over Rawal’s exit.
Communications After the Announcement
After deciding to leave, Paresh Rawal reportedly sent a message to Priyadarshan to clarify his stance while maintaining a respectful tone. The director recounted the communication he received after the public announcement.
“After his announcement, Paresh sent me a message saying, ‘Priyan sir, I have nothing against you. I have a lot of respect for you, but I have my reasons for not doing the film.’”
—Priyadarshan, Director
Priyadarshan addressed rumors that he tried to persuade Rawal to reconsider. The director emphasized that he was never informed personally and only learned of the exit through media. Even when reaching out by phone, he was asked not to call, reflecting a unilateral decision by Rawal at a critical juncture.
“I didn’t try to stop him because he never told me that he was leaving the project. When I tried calling him, he texted, saying, ‘Please don’t call me. This is my decision and it has got nothing to do with you.’ He also wrote that we should work together again.”
—Priyadarshan, Director
Rumors Around Remuneration and Creative Differences
Following the news of Rawal’s exit, speculation grew around possible disputes over roles or pay among the three primary stars. Priyadarshan firmly dismissed any suggestion that Akshay Kumar had reduced other actors’ parts or interfered with the director’s vision, underscoring the collaborative nature of the project.
“With me, Akshay has never cut down anybody’s roles. He does not interfere with a director’s vision at all.”
—Priyadarshan, Director
Suggestions that remuneration triggered the exit were also denied by both Priyadarshan and Rawal himself. The director noted that all contractual agreements were already in place, mentioning that as recently as ten days prior to the announcement, Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal had worked together, demonstrating a united front before Rawal’s abrupt decision. According to Priyadarshan, Akshay Kumar was particularly emotional upon learning the news.
“All our contracts were signed. Ten days ago, Suniel, Akshay, and Paresh shot a scene and the IPL teaser. It was only after we unanimously agreed to do Hera Pheri 3 that Akshay bought the franchise’s rights. Akshay had tears in his eyes when he asked me, ‘Priyan, why is Paresh doing this to us?’ Akshay shouldn’t suffer financial losses because Paresh walked out on a whim. I understand that he will have to take whatever action is required.”
—Priyadarshan, Director
Uncertain Future of Hera Pheri 3
With Paresh Rawal’s departure and legal proceedings on the horizon, the fate of Hera Pheri 3 hangs in the balance. The production team now must decide whether to recast the beloved role of Babu Bhaiyya or to rework the storyline entirely. This development not only risks disappointing long-time fans but also places significant financial strain on everyone involved, particularly Akshay Kumar and the franchise’s backers. As industry insiders await decisions on potential litigation and the next creative steps, the film’s release timeline and content are under critical review, with the possibility of significant changes or delays looming.
