Paresh Rawal Confirms Legal Response to Akshay Kumar’s Lawsuit Amid Hera Pheri 3 Controversy

In a surprising turn of events that has left fans of the iconic Hera Pheri film franchise puzzled and concerned, veteran actor Paresh Rawal has publicly addressed reports of a legal dispute involving him and fellow actor Akshay Kumar.

The conflict revolves around Rawal’s unexpected departure from Hera Pheri 3, the much-anticipated third installment in the beloved comedy series.

Taking to the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) on Sunday, the 69-year-old actor stated the ongoing controversy.

Rawal confirmed that his legal representative, advocate Ameet Naik, has officially responded to the lawsuit reportedly filed by Akshay Kumar. “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit,” Rawal posted.

He also expressed confidence that once the concerned parties have reviewed the legal response, the matter will be resolved amicably. “Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest,” he added, suggesting that his exit had legitimate grounds and was not a breach of contract or an act of sabotage.

According to several media reports, Akshay Kumar, who is not only reprising his role as Raju in Hera Pheri 3 but is also attached to the film as one of its producers, has taken serious legal action against Rawal.

Kumar is said to have filed a lawsuit amounting to ₹25 crore, accusing Rawal of “sabotaging” the shoot by exiting after having already signed the contract and reportedly filming portions of the movie.

This legal face-off has created a wave of confusion and disappointment among fans of the franchise. Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, many expressing disbelief over the dispute between the two actors who have shared great on-screen chemistry and have been seen as close colleagues.

“What happened? Everything seemed to be going well. Why is he leaving the movie now?” questioned a concerned fan on X. Another user reflected on the long-standing camaraderie between the actors, writing, “Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal are best friends! What could have gone wrong between them?”

The situation was further complicated by earlier statements from co-star Suniel Shetty, who had hinted that Rawal’s departure was due to “creative differences” with the filmmakers.

However, Rawal has since clarified that this was not the case. He categorically denied having any creative disagreements with director Priyadarshan or other members of the film’s creative team. In a previous statement posted on X, Rawal said, “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences.

I reiterate that there are no creative disagreements with the filmmaker. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan, the film’s director.”

This clarification suggests that other factors, possibly related to contractual or professional terms, influenced his decision to exit the project. The exact nature of these issues, however, remains undisclosed to the public.

Director Priyadarshan, known for helming the original 2000 film Hera Pheri, had earlier expressed his interest in directing the third installment, provided the original cast — Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal — returned to reprise their iconic roles.

In recent months, there had been strong indications that the trio was enthusiastic about reuniting for the film, further heightening anticipation among fans.

The original Hera Pheri told the story of Raju (Akshay Kumar), Shyam (Suniel Shetty), and their quirky landlord Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, affectionately known as Babu Bhaiya (Paresh Rawal).

The plot revolved around their comical misadventures as they struggled with financial woes and stumbled upon a kidnapping ransom call due to a telephone cross-connection, leading to an outrageous and hilarious series of events.

The film became a cult classic in Indian cinema, and its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri (2006), directed by the late Neeraj Vora, was also a commercial success.

Paresh Rawal’s exit from the third installment, therefore, comes as a blow to long-time fans who were eagerly awaiting the trio’s return.

However, it appears that Rawal is not severing all ties with Priyadarshan. He is currently involved in another project with the filmmaker, Bhooth Bangla, a comedy that marks Priyadarshan’s reunion with Akshay Kumar after a gap of 14 years.

This suggests that while there may be friction regarding Hera Pheri 3, the key players’ professional relationships may remain intact in other collaborative ventures.

As the legal proceedings unfold and responses are reviewed by the involved parties, fans hope for a resolution that might still pave the way for the original trio’s return. Until then, the future of Hera Pheri 3 remains uncertain, shrouded in legal and emotional complexity.