Veteran Actor Paresh Rawal, Chairman of National School of Drama addressing at a press conference at NSD Campus, Bahawalpur House in New Delhi
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially announced his departure from the upcoming comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3, in a move that has stunned fans. Taking to social media platform X on Sunday, the actor put an end to swirling rumours, confirming that he is no longer part of the much-hyped project.
“I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences,” Rawal clarified. “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.”
This announcement comes amid intense speculation, with earlier reports suggesting creative friction between Rawal and the makers. However, his statement firmly denies any conflict with Priyadarshan, who also directed the original Hera Pheri (2000).
The news has triggered a wave of disappointment across social media. Rawal’s iconic portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte — the eccentric, bespectacled landlord, “Babu Bhaiya”, at the heart of the Hera Pheri franchise — remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedic characters. Fans are now calling for the film to be shelved entirely, claiming a Hera Pheri without Babu Bhaiya is no Hera Pheri at all.
The franchise, which began in 2000 and followed up with Phir Hera Pheri in 2006, has long held cult status for its slapstick charm. Rawal’s absence casts a shadow over the third instalment, which was expected to reunite the original trio.
Despite stepping away from Hera Pheri 3, Rawal is still busy. He’ll appear next in Bhooth Bangla, a horror-comedy with Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar, set for a 2026 release. He’s also part of the ensemble cast for Welcome to the Jungle.
Published – May 18, 2025 02:14 pm IST