Akshay Kumar Sues Paresh Rawal For ₹25 Crore Over Sudden Exit From 'Hera Pheri 3': Reports

Actor Akshay Kumar has sued Paresh Rawal via his production company Cape of Good Films. The Bollywood superstar has issued a legal notice to fellow actor Rawal, seeking ₹25 crore in damages for what has been described as "grossly unprofessional behaviour"-abandoning 'Hera Pheri 3' mid-way despite signing a binding contract and commencing the shoot.

Just last week, Paresh Rawal confirmed through the media that he was stepping away from the iconic comedy franchise.

While no concrete reason was initially provided, sources have indicated that he simply did not "feel like" being involved at the moment. The news has deeply disappointed the franchise's vast fanbase.

Filming for the highly anticipated 'Hera Pheri 3' began in April under the direction of veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan, with Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal reprising their lead roles.

Notably, Akshay Kumar is also producing the film, having legally acquired the rights from previous producer Feroz Nadiadwala.

Amidst speculation surrounding Rawal's sudden exit, the actor clarified that creative disagreements or financial issues were not behind his decision. In fact, insiders reveal that he was being paid more than three times his usual fee for the project.

"Paresh showed a blatant disregard for professional integrity and commercial ethics. If he didn't wish to be part of the film, he should have said so before signing the contract, accepting the advance payment, and letting the production incur significant costs," stated a source close to the legal developments.

"It's high time Bollywood actors understand that, much like in Hollywood, Indian producers will no longer tolerate actors treating projects casually, walking in and out at will," the source added.

This marks the first occasion in Akshay Kumar's 35-year-long career that he has chosen to take legal action against a fellow actor in the industry for unprofessional conduct.

Paresh Rawal, for his part, has a history of dropping out of projects unexpectedly.

He opted out of 'Oh My God 2' in 2023, citing dissatisfaction with the script. As far back as 2009, he also reportedly withdrew from Shah Rukh Khan's 'Billu Barber', which was also directed by Priyadarshan.

Fans of the 'Hera Pheri' franchise-which has achieved cult status and is widely celebrated in internet memes-are particularly upset.

"Paresh publicly confirmed his involvement in January on his X handle. He took part in all pre-production activities and even shot for a day, including the promotional teaser, quite willingly. At no point did he express any dissatisfaction. To now suddenly pull out, causing financial loss to the producers and dashing the hopes of loyal fans, is in extremely poor taste," the source added.