Akshay Kumar speaks out on Hera Pheri 3 controversy, defends Paresh Rawal amid legal battle
The much-anticipated film Hera Pheri 3 has recently been engulfed in controversy after the sudden exit of veteran actor Paresh Rawal, who played the iconic Baburao in the beloved franchise. Now, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who stars alongside Rawal and also co-produces the movie, has addressed the ongoing dispute, calling it a “serious matter” currently being handled by the courts.
Rawal’s departure from Hera Pheri 3 came as a shock to fans and industry insiders alike. The beloved franchise, which started with Hera Pheri in 2000 and its sequel Phir Hera Pheri in 2006, has remained a cult classic, with audiences eagerly awaiting the third installment for nearly two decades. The sudden announcement on May 18 by Rawal on social media, declaring his exit from the film, sent ripples through the film fraternity.
The situation escalated when Akshay Kumar filed a legal suit against Rawal, claiming damages of Rs 25 crore due to the actor’s withdrawal, which Kumar said affected the production schedule and caused significant financial loss. The legal battle has drawn widespread media attention, intensifying the already tense atmosphere around the film.
Amidst this turmoil, Akshay Kumar took a firm stand in support of his longtime co-star and friend Paresh Rawal. Speaking to reporters at the trailer launch of his upcoming film Housefull 5, Kumar expressed disappointment over the harsh criticism directed at Rawal by some fans. Many had called Rawal “foolish” for walking away from the project, but Kumar firmly rejected such comments.
“It is not right to use such words for one of my co-stars, especially when he is my good friend,” Kumar said. “We have worked together for the last 30 to 35 years. He is a great actor, and I really admire him.” Kumar’s defense of Rawal highlighted the strong personal and professional bond the two share, underscoring that he does not take these matters lightly.
However, Kumar also emphasized that the controversy is a serious issue that he cannot comment on publicly beyond stating that it is being addressed legally. “Whatever it is, I don’t think this is the place where I’m going to talk about it because it’s a very serious matter. It’s a matter which is going to be handled by the court and things like that,” Kumar added.
Rawal himself broke his silence on the controversy last week, stating that his lawyer had responded to Kumar’s lawsuit. Beyond this, Rawal has refrained from making detailed public comments, maintaining a low profile while the legal proceedings unfold.
The Hera Pheri series, directed by Priyadarshan, is a landmark in Bollywood comedy, featuring Kumar as the cunning Raju and Suniel Shetty as the earnest Shyam, alongside Rawal’s iconic Baburao character. The original film’s success and its sequel have cemented the trio’s status as one of the most beloved comic ensembles in Indian cinema.
With the third part set to be helmed again by Priyadarshan, the controversy has put the film’s future in uncertainty. Fans continue to hope for a resolution so they can once again enjoy the antics of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao on the big screen.
For now, the legal battle and public statements by Kumar and Rawal keep the saga in the headlines, leaving many to watch closely as the drama unfolds both on and off camera.
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