The highly anticipated Hera Pheri 3 has hit a roadblock. Akshay Kumar, through his production house Cape of Good Films, has taken legal action against veteran actor Paresh Rawal. The lawsuit, worth ₹25 crore, alleges that Rawal’s abrupt departure from the film has sabotaged the project and caused significant financial losses.
Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—who were part of the first two Hera Pheri films—began shooting for the third installment in April this year. Akshay took over as the producer after legally acquiring the rights from producer Feroz Nadiadwala. Moreover, Priyadarshan, who directed the original, returned to helm the third part.
However, soon after filming began, reports surfaced that Paresh Rawal had walked away from the movie due to creative differences. While this speculation gained traction, Rawal later clarified that his departure had nothing to do with disagreements over the film’s vision. Akshay Kumar Sues Paresh Rawal for ₹25 Crore After Hera Pheri 3 Exit
On Sunday, the veteran actor took to his X handle to address the rumors. He explained that he simply did not feel like being part of the film. His respect for Priyadarshan remained intact, and he reaffirmed his admiration for the director’s work. He stated, “I love Priyadarshan and have great respect and faith in him as a director. We have done wonderful movies together in the past and will continue to do so. There were no creative differences, nor is there a possibility of having any with him.”
Paresh further emphasized that no amount of money could replace the love and respect of his audience. Although Priyadarshan tried to convince him otherwise, Rawal remained firm in his decision.
Despite Rawal’s reasoning, Akshay Kumar and his production house argue that his exit has jeopardized the film. According to reports, Rawal was offered more than three times his usual fee for the project. A source familiar with the legal proceedings revealed that Rawal had already signed the contract, accepted the signing amount, and participated in pre-production planning.
The source further explained, “Paresh displayed a blatant disregard for professional integrity or commercial morality. If he wanted to not do the film, he should have said so before signing the legal contract, accepting the signing amount, and making the producer spend so much money on the shoot.”
The lawsuit argues that Rawal’s sudden withdrawal is in bad faith. Having announced his involvement earlier this year, he participated in promotional shoots and initial filming. Now, his decision to walk away allegedly disrupts the project and disappoints fans of the franchise. Director Priyadarshan also expressed his surprise at Rawal’s exit. He acknowledged that
