Paresh Rawal exits ‘Hera Pheri 3’
Rawal's performance was equally memorable in the film’s 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, directed by Neeraj Vora.
KATHMANDU: ‘Hera Pheri’, a cult classic of Bollywood released in 2000, became a massive commercial success and earned a special place in audiences’ hearts, thanks in large part to its iconic characters.
Among them, Babu Rao Ganpatrao Apte—played masterfully by Paresh Rawal—remains one of the most beloved.
Rawal’s performance was equally memorable in the film’s 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, directed by Neeraj Vora.
Now, as the third installment of the ‘Hera Pheri’ franchise is in development, fans are in for a disappointment: Paresh Rawal will not be reprising his iconic role.
The veteran actor confirmed his departure from Hera Pheri 3 due to creative differences with the filmmakers. Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, he stated, “I am not doing Hera Pheri 3.”
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 DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER . I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director.
— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) May 18, 2025
Although he has opted out for now, industry insiders speculate there’s still a chance he may return, as the franchise has seen many unexpected twists in the past.
In 2022, Akshay Kumar had announced his exit from Hera Pheri 3—only to rejoin the project later. Fans are hopeful that a similar turnaround could happen with Paresh Rawal.
The film, to be directed by Priyadarshan, is still in a state of limbo with its shoot yet to begin. Rawal’s exit has reportedly caused further delays.
However, the muhurat (inaugural) shot has already been completed. The film will see Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty reprise their iconic roles as Raju and Shyam, whose chemistry was a major highlight of the first two installments.
Meanwhile, Paresh Rawal is set to reunite with director Priyadarshan in the upcoming horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla.
The film will also feature Akshay Kumar and Tabu, marking an exciting comeback collaboration.
Bhooth Bangla is slated for theatrical release in 2026. Additionally, Paresh Rawal is also working on another major project, Welcome to the Jungle.
