Paresh Rawal Exits ‘Hera Pheri 3’, Denies Rift With Director Priyadarshan; Fans Demand Return of 'Babu Rao'

Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal recently sparked a social media frenzy after announcing his departure from the eagerly awaited film 'Hera Pheri 3'.

A report from Bollywood Hungama had earlier claimed the actor stepped away from the project due to creative disagreements with the filmmakers. However, Rawal has now addressed the rumours directly.

On Sunday, Paresh took to X to clarify his position, stating unequivocally that creative differences were not the reason behind his decision. "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.

Fans Speculate About the Real Reason Behind Exit

The actor's clarification left fans more intrigued, with many questioning what might have prompted his exit. One user on X queried, "You don't want to get trapped again in the Babu Bhaiya image?"

Another fan implored him to reconsider: "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 fan 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."

Following Rawal's confirmation that he is no longer associated with 'Hera Pheri 3', social media was inundated with demands from fans to either bring back his character or scrap the sequel altogether. Many argued that the film would lose its charm without his iconic portrayal of Babu Rao.

A Legendary Comedy Franchise

The 'Hera Pheri' franchise remains one of Bollywood's most cherished comedy series, celebrated for its unforgettable characters, witty dialogues, and enduring humour.

The original film, 'Hera Pheri' (2000), directed by Priyadarshan, starred Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal.

It follows three men, down on their luck, who accidentally become involved in a kidnapping case. Rawal's performance as the eccentric landlord Baburao Ganpatrao Apte-affectionately known as Babu Rao-became an instant classic.

The 2006 sequel, 'Phir Hera Pheri', directed by Neeraj Vora, continued the comic misadventures of the trio as they got entangled in a dubious get-rich-quick scheme. Although it didn't receive the same critical praise as its predecessor, it was a box office success and went on to achieve cult status.

What's Next for Paresh Rawal?

Despite stepping away from 'Hera Pheri 3', Rawal is set to reunite with director Priyadarshan for another film titled 'Bhooth Bangla'.

The horror-comedy, which will also see him share the screen with Akshay Kumar and Tabu, is scheduled to hit cinemas in 2026. Additionally, he will appear in the upcoming multi-starrer 'Welcome to the Jungle'.