Key Points
- Paresh Rawal, iconic as Baburao, has abruptly quit Hera Pheri 3 after shooting began, leaving fans and makers shocked.
- Akshay Kumar, producer and co-star, has sent Rawal a ₹25 crore legal notice for breach of contract and alleged sabotage of the film.
- Rawal denies creative or monetary disputes, citing personal reasons for his exit, but reports suggest a fee dispute may have played a role.
- Director Priyadarshan and Suniel Shetty were unaware of Rawal’s decision until after the announcement, calling the situation a “crisis.”
- The production is now stalled, with speculation rife about who could replace Rawal in the beloved role of Baburao.
Mumbai: The much-anticipated Hera Pheri 3 has been thrown into chaos after veteran actor Paresh Rawal, beloved for his portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, abruptly announced his departure from the film. The move has stunned fans and the film’s team alike, with Akshay Kumar who is both co-star and producer responding by sending Rawal a legal notice demanding ₹25 crore in damages for breach of contract and alleged sabotage of the project.
What Led to the Fallout?
Rawal’s exit comes after he had already signed the contract, accepted an advance (reportedly higher than his usual fee), and participated in initial shoots and key meetings. According to sources close to the production, Rawal later demanded additional payment, which the makers were unwilling to meet, prompting his decision to quit. The production house has labeled this behavior “unprofessional and unexpected” from an actor of his stature.
However, Rawal has publicly denied any creative or financial disagreements. In multiple interviews and social media posts, he clarified, “There were no creative differences, nor is there a possibility of having any with [director Priyadarshan]. No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just felt it is a role that I don’t want to do, that’s all”. He maintains that his decision was personal and final “for the time being,” though he leaves the door open for future reconsideration.
Akshay Kumar’s Legal Move and Industry Reaction
Akshay Kumar, who acquired the rights to the franchise and invested heavily in the production, has taken the rare step of initiating legal proceedings against Rawal—his first such action in a 35-year career. The legal notice seeks ₹25 crore in compensation for losses incurred due to Rawal’s sudden exit, which stalled shooting and wasted crores already spent on production and promotional material.
Director Priyadarshan expressed surprise and disappointment, stating that Rawal did not inform the team directly. “Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel and I did and both were onboard. I don’t know why this happened because Paresh didn’t inform us. Akshay has the right to take legal action as he invested his money in the film”.
Suniel Shetty, who plays Shyam in the franchise, was equally blindsided, learning of Rawal’s exit through his children and calling it “absolutely shocking” and a “crisis” for the film.
Who Will Replace Baburao?
With Rawal’s exit, speculation is rife about who could step into the iconic shoes of Baburao. While no official announcement has been made, fans have suggested actors like Pankaj Tripathi as potential successors. The makers face a major challenge in recasting a role so closely associated with Rawal’s comic genius.
Hera Pheri 3 faces an uncertain future after Paresh Rawal’s sudden departure. The legal battle initiated by Akshay Kumar underscores the high stakes and emotional investment in the franchise. As the team scrambles to find a replacement for Baburao, fans and industry insiders alike are left wondering if the magic of the original can ever be recaptured.
