"We had to finetune ourselves": Paresh Rawal rejoins Hera Pheri 3 after ₹11 lakh settlement with Akshay Kumar

Actor Paresh Rawal has officially confirmed his return to Hera Pheri 3, following a reported legal dispute with Akshay Kumar’s production company. The third installment of the popular comedy franchise had been in the spotlight since May, when Rawal announced his departure from the project on X. This led to a lawsuit filed against him by the production house, alleging that he had sabotaged the shoot.

According to reports, the production company, owned by Akshay Kumar, sued Rawal for ₹25 crore after his exit from the film. The legal notice alleged breach of contract and disruption of the film’s progress. Rawal’s legal team responded by returning ₹11 lakh, which was reportedly the signing amount, along with 15% interest.

In a recent podcast with Himanshu Mehta, Rawal said, “There’s no controversy. I believe that when people have loved something so much, then you have to be extra careful... Mehnat karke unko (film) do.” He added, “It is all resolved now.” Rawal emphasized the need for teamwork, stating, “Sab saath mein aayein, mehnat karein. Aur kuch nahin.”

Addressing speculation around creative differences with director Priyadarshan, Rawal posted on X on May 18: “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from 'Hera Pheri 3' was not due to creative differences. I reiterate that there are no creative disagreements with the filmmaker. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr Priyadarshan.” The film marks the reunion of the original trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—under Priyadarshan’s direction.

Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006) gained wide popularity for their comic timing and iconic characters. Paresh Rawal played Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, while Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty portrayed Raju and Shyam, respectively. Hera Pheri 3 is being produced under Akshay Kumar’s banner after acquiring the rights from original producer Feroz Nadiadwala.