Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal recently sparked buzz on social media by revealing his departure from the highly awaited film Hera Pheri 3.
While a source informed Bollywood Hungama that the actor decided to quit the film due to creative differences with the makers. Now, Paresh has finally cleared the air.
On Sunday, Paresh took to X and confirmed that he didn’t quit the film due to creative differences with director Priyadarshan. He wrote, “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.”
Paresh’s tweet left fans curious as to what could be the real reason behind his exit, reports Hindustan Times.
One user on X asked, “You don’t want to get trapped again in the Babu Bhaiya image?” Another fan urged him to reconsider and wrote, “Then what happened? Are the producers offering less money, or are you bored of playing the same role? Come on, Babu Bhaiyya, Hera Pheri without even one of the three main leads would be totally pointless. Please rethink.” Another commented, “Sir, the Hera Pheri series would totally be a big ‘0’ if you weren’t part of it. If the upcoming instalment doesn’t feature the OG Babu Rao, then there’s nothing left. Raju and Shyam were alive because of Babu Rao’s input.”
As soon as Paresh confirmed that he is no longer a part of Hera Pheri 3, fans flooded social media with demands to either bring Babu Rao back or not continue with the film at all. Many suggested that the third instalment should be scrapped entirely.
The Hera Pheri franchise is one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedy series, known for its iconic characters, hilarious dialogues, and timeless humour.
The first film, Hera Pheri (2000), directed by Priyadarshan, starred Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal in the lead roles.
The story follows three down-on-their-luck men who unwittingly get caught up in a kidnapping racket. Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of the bumbling yet lovable landlord Baburao Ganpatrao Apte became especially iconic.
The sequel, Phir Hera Pheri (2006), directed by Neeraj Vora, continued the trio’s misadventures as they fall for a get-rich-quick scheme. Though not as critically acclaimed as the first, it was a commercial hit and gained cult status over time. The franchise is celebrated for its slapstick comedy, relatable struggles, and memorable one-liners.
Paresh Rawal is also set to collaborate with Priyadarshan once again in an upcoming film titled Bhooth Bangla. The horror-comedy will feature him sharing the screen with Akshay Kumar and also stars Tabu. The film is slated for a theatrical release in 2026. In addition, Paresh is part of the cast for the upcoming movie Welcome to the Jungle.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia