The Hera Pheri franchise holds a cherished place in the hearts of Indian cinema lovers, thanks to its impeccable blend of humour, memorable characters and timeless one-liners. The trio of Raju, Shyam and Baburao, portrayed by Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, respectively, created a cult legacy with their unmatched chemistry and comic timing.
These films aren’t just comedies — they are institutions of joy and nostalgia, watched and rewatched by generations. Hera Pheri brought everyday struggles to the screen with absurdity and heart and no matter how many years pass, its scenes remain as fresh and hilarious as ever.
In a surprising and emotional revelation, Suniel Shetty has shared that he is yet to have a proper conversation with Paresh Rawal regarding the latter’s abrupt exit from Hera Pheri 3, a development that has left him stunned as well as heartbroken. According to Suniel Shetty, although he briefly spoke with Paresh, the two have not been able to sit down and properly discuss what led to the veteran actor’s sudden withdrawal. However, Paresh did express a willingness to meet, which Suniel sees as a hopeful sign amid the uncertainty.
The actor further expressed confusion, stating that a trailer for the film had already been shot and that, given Paresh Rawal’s usual professionalism and their longstanding bond, it was surprising that such a critical announcement would be made publicly without prior discussion. He reflected on the deep connection he shares with both Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar, emphasising that the three of them have always stood united when it comes to the Hera Pheri franchise.
Suniel Shetty also opened up about his emotional investment in certain film projects, particularly Hera Pheri, Welcome and Awara Pagal Deewana. He revealed that he had mentally committed to focusing only on sequels to these beloved films unless a truly special script came his way. Hence, Paresh’s exit from Hera Pheri 3 has been especially painful.
He later expressed his hurt more openly, lamenting how difficult it is to see close friends fall out over professional matters. In his view, Hera Pheri is inseparable from the trio of Raju, Shyam and Baburao, and even if the film doesn’t go forward, he hopes that personal relationships between the actors are not damaged in the process. In an industry constantly fraught with professional pressure, the actor emphasised the need to preserve friendships over everything else.
This emotional turmoil comes in the wake of a serious legal development as Akshay Kumar’s production company, Cape of Good Films, has filed a lawsuit against Paresh Rawal. The veteran actor is reportedly being sued for Rs 25 crore, as he had already begun filming and accepted partial payment for his role in Hera Pheri 3. According to legal representative Pooja Tidke of Parinam Law Associates, Paresh Rawal has six days to return the payment, failing which further legal action may be pursued.
As fans await clarity on whether the film will proceed with its original cast, the future of one of the most iconic comedy franchises of Bollywood hangs in the balance.
