AI Image of Pankaj Tripathi as Baburao Sparks Debate Over ‘Hera Pheri 3’ Casting

A viral AI-generated image of actor Pankaj Tripathi as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte from the beloved Hera Pheri franchise has ignited a fresh wave of discussion online. The image has reignited fan debates over whether Tripathi could step into the iconic role following veteran actor Paresh Rawal’s confirmed departure from Hera Pheri 3.

The AI image, shared widely on Reddit, shows Tripathi dressed in Baburao’s signature white dhoti, vest, gold chain, and thick glasses—capturing the essence of the character popularized by Rawal in Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006). The caption asked, “Can Pankaj Tripathi play Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in Hera Pheri?” sparking a flurry of opinions.

Social media users had mixed reactions. One user wrote, “Tripathi is a great actor and could reinvent the role. But it shouldn’t be a copy. If Rawal isn’t part of it, maybe the film needs a new title or character.” Another fan commented, “He wouldn’t be a replacement, just a reinvention. But audiences would constantly compare them. It wouldn’t feel the same.”

Some users were critical of Tripathi’s fit for the role, pointing out that his strength lies in subtle performances. “Pankaj was exposed in ‘Atal’. He plays subdued roles, while Babu Bhaiya is loud and dynamic. Replacing Paresh Rawal directly wouldn’t work,” read one post.

Meanwhile, the controversy around Paresh Rawal’s exit from Hera Pheri 3 continues to unfold. Rawal recently posted on X (formerly Twitter), “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit.” His legal team told IANS that due to the absence of a finalized screenplay and contract, Rawal chose to step away and returned the signing amount with interest.

Suniel Shetty, who plays Shyam in the franchise, expressed shock over Rawal’s exit, telling India Today, “I have no clue about this. Even Akshay is clueless. I need to speak to Pareshji in person.”

Comedian Johny Lever also weighed in during an interview with Zoom, urging the team to resolve the matter. “They should sit together and sort this out. Fans will miss Pareshji. The film won’t be the same without him,” he said.

While Pankaj Tripathi has denied intentions of replacing Rawal, the fan-generated buzz shows how strongly audiences connect with the original cast. Whether Tripathi enters the franchise or not, one thing is clear—Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of Baburao remains irreplaceable in the eyes of many.

Rawal is next slated to appear in Badtameez Gill alongside Vaani Kapoor and Aparshakti Khurana, and in Welcome To The Jungle with Akshay Kumar.

IT.