Veteran actor Paresh Rawal recently stirred up a wave of disappointment among fans after confirming that he will not be a part of the much-anticipated comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3. Speculation quickly followed, with reports claiming creative differences with director Priyadarshan as the cause. However, the actor has now set the record straight.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Rawal dismissed the rumours and offered clarity. “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,” he wrote.
Despite his clarification, fans were left speculating about the real reason behind his decision. Some questioned if Rawal wanted to avoid being typecast in the iconic role of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte. One user asked, “You don’t want to get trapped again in the Babu Bhaiya image?” while another pleaded, “Please rethink. Hera Pheri without even one of the three main leads would be totally pointless.”
The reaction on social media was swift and passionate, with many calling for the film’s cancellation if Rawal is not brought back. “The Hera Pheri series would totally be a big ‘0’ if you weren’t part of it,” one fan commented.
Hera Pheri, which first released in 2000, quickly became a cult classic in Indian cinema. Starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, the film’s hilarious plot and unforgettable characters, especially Rawal’s Baburao, earned it legendary status. Its 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, while not as critically acclaimed, also found commercial success and a loyal fanbase.
As of now, details surrounding Hera Pheri 3 remain under wraps, but the absence of one of its core characters has already raised serious concerns among fans and cinephiles.
Meanwhile, Paresh Rawal will soon be seen in Bhooth Bangla, another project with Priyadarshan. The upcoming horror-comedy also stars Akshay Kumar and Tabu and is set for a 2026 theatrical release. Additionally, Rawal is part of the ensemble cast of Welcome to the Jungle.
Sources By Agencies
