Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 9: Veteran Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal’s unexpected departure from the upcoming film Hera Pheri 3 has left fans stunned and disappointed. Known for his iconic role as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in the beloved comedy franchise, Rawal’s absence has sparked an outpouring of emotion and appeals from fans on social media.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Sir please think once again to join Hera Pheri. You are the hero of this movie.” However, Rawal gently corrected the fan, replying, “NO… There are three heroes in Hera Pheri.”
The shock deepened after reports surfaced suggesting Akshay Kumar had taken legal action against Rawal over his departure. Addressing the matter on May 25, Rawal said his lawyer, Ameet Naik, had sent a detailed response to the film’s producers regarding what he termed his “rightful termination and exit.” “Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest,” he posted on X.
While initial buzz pointed to creative differences as the reason for his exit, Rawal dismissed these rumours. In a public clarification, he stated, “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences.” He emphasized his respect for the film’s director, saying, “I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan.”
Directed by Priyadarshan, Hera Pheri 3 was expected to reunite the original trio — Akshay Kumar as Raju, Suniel Shetty as Shyam, and Paresh Rawal as Babu Bhaiya. Rawal’s exit has particularly affected co-star Suniel Shetty, who expressed deep sorrow over the development.
Shetty said, “I’m completely heartbroken. If there was one film I was truly looking forward to, it was Hera Pheri.” He stressed the irreplaceable nature of Rawal’s character, stating, “It 100% cannot happen without Paresh Rawal. It might still happen without me or Akshay, but not without Babu Bhaiya. If Raju and Shyam aren’t getting hammered by Babu, it just doesn’t work.”
Paresh Rawal originally played the beloved role of Babu Bhaiya, the dim-witted but lovable garage owner whose quirks became the soul of the franchise. His chemistry with Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty helped Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006) achieve cult status among Indian comedy films.
With Rawal’s exit, the future of Hera Pheri 3 hangs in the balance, as fans continue to urge the actor to reconsider his decision and return to the role that has become synonymous with his name.