The much-loved Hera Pheri franchise, a cornerstone of Bollywood comedy, has been at the center of a storm following Paresh Rawal’s unexpected exit from the third installment. Fans of the iconic trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—were left disheartened when news of a legal dispute and Rawal’s departure surfaced earlier this year. However, recent developments have brought renewed hope, with Rawal confirming that all issues have been resolved, and Hera Pheri 3 is back on track. This article explores the journey of the controversy, its resolution, and what lies ahead for the beloved franchise.

The Controversy: A Shocking Exit

In May 2025, Paresh Rawal, renowned for his portrayal of the endearing Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, announced his departure from Hera Pheri 3, citing personal reasons and a lack of connection with the role. The decision sent shockwaves through the industry and fanbase, as Babu Bhaiya’s character is widely regarded as the heart of the franchise’s comedic legacy. Reports indicated that Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films, filed a Rs 25 crore lawsuit against Rawal, alleging breach of contract and financial losses due to his abrupt exit. The legal notice claimed Rawal had accepted a Rs 11 lakh signing amount and participated in a promotional shoot, only to withdraw without clear justification.

Adding to the complexity, sources revealed that Rawal’s discomfort stemmed from the absence of a finalized script and unclear details about his character’s arc. Industry insiders also pointed to a dispute over the franchise’s intellectual property rights, with original producer Firoz Nadiadwala asserting control and issuing notices to the cast and crew to refrain from promotional activities. These factors, combined with Rawal’s reported dissatisfaction with a contract clause delaying his Rs 15 crore fee until after the film’s release, fueled his decision to step away.

Reactions from the Industry and Fans

The news of Rawal’s exit was met with dismay from co-stars and fans alike. Suniel Shetty, who plays Shyam, expressed shock, learning of the decision through his children, while director Priyadarshan described Rawal’s departure as a personal and professional blow, emphasizing the irreplaceable chemistry of the original trio. Fans took to social media, pleading for Rawal’s return, with many asserting that Hera Pheri 3 would be incomplete without Babu Bhaiya. Comedian Johnny Lever also urged Rawal to reconsider, stating, “The film won’t be the same without him.”

Akshay Kumar, both a lead actor and producer, initially maintained a diplomatic stance, defending Rawal’s reputation and their 32-year friendship while acknowledging the seriousness of the legal proceedings. Despite their collaboration on another Priyadarshan project, Bhoot Bangla, tensions between the two actors were evident, with Rawal referring to Kumar as a colleague rather than a friend in one interview.

The Resolution: A New Dawn

On June 29, 2025, Paresh Rawal revealed that all issues surrounding Hera Pheri 3 have been resolved, signaling his return to the project. With fans and industry observers expressing excitement over the revival of the iconic trio under Priyadarshan’s direction. While specific details of the resolution remain undisclosed, Rawal’s statement suggests that legal and creative concerns, including script clarity and contractual disputes, have been addressed. The resolution has also quelled uncertainties regarding the franchise’s intellectual property rights, with indications that producer Firoz Nadiadwala and Akshay Kumar’s team have reached an agreement to move forward. This development has reinvigorated anticipation for the film, which is slated to begin principal photography in 2026.

The Road Ahead for Hera Pheri 3

With Paresh Rawal back on board, Hera Pheri 3 promises to recapture the magic of the 2000 original and its 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri. The franchise, known for its timeless humor and memorable dialogues, has a cult following, and fans are eager to see the chaotic adventures of Raju, Shyam, and Babu Bhaiya continue. Priyadarshan’s return as director further fuels expectations, given his role in crafting the original film’s iconic status. However, challenges remain. The production must navigate the high expectations of a fanbase protective of the franchise’s legacy, especially after the mixed reception to Phir Hera Pheri’s shift in tone. Rawal’s earlier concerns about the script suggest that the team will prioritize a strong narrative to honor the trio’s chemistry and the franchise’s comedic roots.

Conclusion

The resolution of the Hera Pheri 3 controversy marks a triumphant moment for fans and filmmakers alike. Paresh Rawal’s return as Babu Bhaiya ensures that the soul of the franchise remains intact, setting the stage for a much-anticipated reunion of Bollywood’s most beloved comedic trio. As production gears up, the focus will be on delivering a film that lives up to the legacy of Hera Pheri while addressing the creative and logistical challenges that nearly derailed it. For now, fans can rejoice in the knowledge that Babu Bhaiya is back, ready to bring laughter and chaos to the big screen once more.