Rawal assures Hera Pheri 3 is on track, says delay stems from technical issue between Akshay and makers

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has addressed ongoing delays surrounding the highly anticipated Hera Pheri 3, clarifying that the project is still on track but has been slowed by technical issues between lead actor Akshay Kumar and the film’s makers. Rawal, who plays the iconic Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, emphasised that the delay is not due to his own involvement and expressed confidence that the film will eventually be made.
In an appearance on a show, Rawal dismissed rumours linking him personally to the hold-up, saying, “This is a technical issue between the producer and an actor (Akshay). Nothing to do with me. When these two resolve the issue, I’ll just have to sign the papers.” He also brushed aside reports of legal conflict, comparing exaggerated claims about an alleged Rs 25-crore suit to smoke without fire.

The actor underlined his belief in the strength and legacy of the Hera Pheri franchise, warning that attempting to make the sequel without his beloved character would be a misstep. “If they’re going ahead with the idea of doing Hera Pheri without Baburao, then it will be a disaster,” he said, highlighting how central the character is to fans and the film’s identity.

Rawal’s remarks come amid longstanding anticipation for the third instalment, which would reunite him with Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty in their classic roles. The original film Hera Pheri (2000) and its 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri remain hugely popular, and fans have repeatedly expressed eagerness for the trio’s return.