Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has finally addressed the swirling controversy around veteran actor Paresh Rawal’s reported exit from the much-anticipated comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3. Speaking candidly during a recent media interaction, Akshay didn’t hold back when asked about the casting shuffle and gave a clear message that the matter is now in legal hands. He also called out a journalist for using the word “foolish” in connection with his own earlier decision regarding the franchise.
For weeks now, fans of the beloved Hera Pheri franchise have been speculating about the absence of the original cast member Paresh Rawal — known for his iconic portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte — from the third installment. While Suniel Shetty and Akshay Kumar are confirmed to return, the question of whether Paresh Rawal will reprise his role has been the subject of public confusion and disappointment.
In the press conference, Akshay was asked directly about Paresh Rawal’s supposed departure from the film. To this, he responded firmly, “There is a legal issue involved now. It’s not something that can be resolved through discussions alone — the matter will be handled by the court. I can’t speak in detail because it’s sub judice.”
He further emphasized that the team had great respect for Rawal and acknowledged the significance of the original trio. “We all know what Baburao meant to the audience. I have the utmost respect for Paresh ji — not just as an actor, but also as a person. Whatever’s happening right now is unfortunate, but sometimes things go beyond our personal wishes,” he added.
However, the conversation took a sharp turn when a journalist implied that Akshay had once made a “foolish” decision by initially opting out of the third film when it was first proposed with a different script. Reacting to the remark, Akshay visibly bristled and offered a pointed rebuttal.
“I don’t think it’s fair to use the word ‘foolish’ when talking about someone’s professional choices,” he said. “At that point, I wasn’t convinced about the script, and I didn’t want to do injustice to the audience or the franchise. Saying no to a project is also a responsible decision. We all want to give our best — not just cash in on nostalgia.”
He further explained that when the script underwent changes and better creative clarity was achieved, he reconsidered his involvement. “When the right script came along, I was more than happy to return. Hera Pheri is close to my heart, and so is the audience that made it iconic.”
Fans of the franchise, which started in 2000 and quickly became a cult classic, have long hoped to see the original trio — Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal — back on screen together. Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of the eccentric and lovable Baburao remains one of Indian cinema’s most enduring comedic performances, making his potential exit from the third installment especially disappointing for longtime fans.
Online reactions to the controversy have been mixed. While some viewers are hopeful that legal proceedings will allow Rawal to return, others worry that the magic of the trio might be impossible to replicate. Social media platforms have been flooded with memes, tributes to the original Hera Pheri, and calls for the makers to ensure the reunion of all three original actors.
Akshay concluded the topic by urging fans to be patient. “We’re doing our best to bring something that lives up to the legacy of Hera Pheri. Let’s wait and let things unfold the right way. We owe it to the audience to make something special — and we’re trying.”
As Hera Pheri 3 moves into production amid legal complexities and heightened expectations, it’s clear that the road ahead is filled with both hope and uncertainty. Whether Paresh Rawal will ultimately rejoin the cast remains a question only time — and possibly a court — can answer.
