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Hera Pheri 3: Priyadarshan Opens Up on Paresh Rawal`s Exit and Akshay`s Reaction
Updated on: 23 May, 2025 01:57 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Still from Hera Pheri
The much-anticipated return of the iconic trio in Hera Pheri 3 has been thrown into disarray with veteran actor Paresh Rawal`s sudden decision to quit the film. His departure has not only sent shockwaves through the industry but also deeply impacted his co-stars and the film`s director, Priyadarshan, who has now shed light on the unfolding drama.
The filmmaker categorically denied attempting to convince Paresh not to quit Hera Pheri 3, dismissing rumours of creative differences. He emphasised, "With me, Akshay has never cut down anybody’s role. He does not interfere with a director’s vision at all.” This statement aimed to clear the air regarding any potential disputes over screen time or character prominence.
Priyadarshan also revealed the profound impact of Rawal`s decision on Akshay Kumar. He shared, "Akshay had tears in his eyes when he asked me, ‘Priyan, why is Paresh doing this to us?’" This emotional reaction highlights the bond between the co-stars and the unexpected nature of Rawal`s exit. Priyadarshan further explained that "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."
Indeed, Akshay`s production house, Cape of Good Films, has now sued Paresh Rawal for ₹25 crore for quitting Hera Pheri 3. According to sources familiar with the legal proceedings, Rawal "displayed a blatant disregard for professional integrity or commercial morality. If he did not want to do the film, he should have said so before signing the legal contract, accepting the signing amount, and making the producer spend so much money on the shoot."
Rawal had publicly acknowledged his participation on January 30, 2025, via X.com, and formalised his commitment on March 27, 2025, accepting a part payment of ₹11,00,000. He also participated in a teaser shoot and initial film shoot, where over three minutes of footage was captured.
Also Read: "I Don`t Give A F*ck!" Priyadarshan On Paresh Rawal`s Exit From Hera Pheri 3
Industry insiders, including trade analyst Taran Adarsh, opined that the issue "could just have been sorted internally" and that taking it to a legal level doesn`t "sound nice" considering their long-standing friendship. Film trade expert Girish Wankhede believes the controversy might even garner "additional media attention" but warns that the conflict "casts a shadow over the film industry as a whole", potentially reflecting poorly on loyalty within the industry.
The situation mirrors a past incident in 2012 where Deepika Padukone exited Race 2 after filming had begun, leading to producer Ramesh Taurani filing a lawsuit. While that situation eventually resolved with Deepika rejoining the film, the Hera Pheri 3 saga underscores the complexities and contractual obligations within the entertainment world. As fans hope for a resolution, the future of Hera Pheri 3 remains uncertain without its beloved Baburao.
Also Read: After Paresh Rawal`s Exit From Hera Pheri 3, Diljit Dosanjh Quits No Entry 2
Priyadarshan Says He Didn`t Try to Stop Paresh Rawal
Priyadarshan expressed his deep hurt and shock over Paresh Rawal`s decision to announce his exit publicly without informing anyone personally. He revealed that after the public announcement, Paresh messaged him, stating, "Please don’t call me. This is my decision, and it has nothing to do with you." Rawal also mentioned that he held no ill feelings and continued to respect Priyadarshan but had his own reasons for stepping away.The filmmaker categorically denied attempting to convince Paresh not to quit Hera Pheri 3, dismissing rumours of creative differences. He emphasised, "With me, Akshay has never cut down anybody’s role. He does not interfere with a director’s vision at all.” This statement aimed to clear the air regarding any potential disputes over screen time or character prominence.
Priyadarshan also revealed the profound impact of Rawal`s decision on Akshay Kumar. He shared, "Akshay had tears in his eyes when he asked me, ‘Priyan, why is Paresh doing this to us?’" This emotional reaction highlights the bond between the co-stars and the unexpected nature of Rawal`s exit. Priyadarshan further explained that "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."
Indeed, Akshay`s production house, Cape of Good Films, has now sued Paresh Rawal for ₹25 crore for quitting Hera Pheri 3. According to sources familiar with the legal proceedings, Rawal "displayed a blatant disregard for professional integrity or commercial morality. If he did not want to do the film, he should have said so before signing the legal contract, accepting the signing amount, and making the producer spend so much money on the shoot."
Rawal had publicly acknowledged his participation on January 30, 2025, via X.com, and formalised his commitment on March 27, 2025, accepting a part payment of ₹11,00,000. He also participated in a teaser shoot and initial film shoot, where over three minutes of footage was captured.
Also Read: "I Don`t Give A F*ck!" Priyadarshan On Paresh Rawal`s Exit From Hera Pheri 3
Fans` Disappointment and Industry`s Take
Fans had been eagerly awaiting the return of the iconic trio of Akshay, Suniel, and Paresh. Following Rawal’s exit, many felt the franchise wouldn`t be the same, with calls for the film to be shelved entirely. Netizens reacted with disappointment, with one user stating, "Hera Pheri without Baburao is hard to imagine. You made the role unforgettable with your perfect timing and expressions."Industry insiders, including trade analyst Taran Adarsh, opined that the issue "could just have been sorted internally" and that taking it to a legal level doesn`t "sound nice" considering their long-standing friendship. Film trade expert Girish Wankhede believes the controversy might even garner "additional media attention" but warns that the conflict "casts a shadow over the film industry as a whole", potentially reflecting poorly on loyalty within the industry.
The situation mirrors a past incident in 2012 where Deepika Padukone exited Race 2 after filming had begun, leading to producer Ramesh Taurani filing a lawsuit. While that situation eventually resolved with Deepika rejoining the film, the Hera Pheri 3 saga underscores the complexities and contractual obligations within the entertainment world. As fans hope for a resolution, the future of Hera Pheri 3 remains uncertain without its beloved Baburao.
Also Read: After Paresh Rawal`s Exit From Hera Pheri 3, Diljit Dosanjh Quits No Entry 2
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