Paresh Rawal Exits Hera Pheri 3, Refutes Creative Differences Rumours

Paresh Rawal, best known for his portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in the Hera Pheri series, officially announced on Sunday that he is no longer part of the upcoming sequel, Hera Pheri 3.

While earlier reports suggested his exit was due to creative differences, Rawal took to social media to clarify that this was not the case.

Rawal Denies Rumours of Creative Disagreements

In a tweet posted on May 18, Rawal wrote, “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 DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director.”

The statement came after speculation emerged about Rawal’s departure being tied to issues with the film’s direction. The actor, however, made it clear that he has no disputes with Priyadarshan, reaffirming his respect for the filmmaker.

Legacy of Babu Bhaiya in the Franchise

Paresh Rawal’s character Baburao has become one of the most iconic figures in Indian comedy. His catchphrases and scenes from Hera Pheri and Phir Hera Pheri continue to circulate widely on social media, especially as memes.

The franchise began in 2000 with Hera Pheri, directed by Priyadarshan. It introduced audiences to the unforgettable trio of Akshay Kumar (Raju), Suniel Shetty (Shyam), and Paresh Rawal (Baburao).

The sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, directed by Neeraj Vora in 2006, built on their chemistry and was a commercial success, eventually attaining cult status.

Suniel Shetty: “The Film Doesn’t Work Without the Trio”

Actor Suniel Shetty also spoke about the trio’s irreplaceable bond in a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble.

He said, “If it was Hera Pheri, If it wasn’t Babu Bhai (Paresh Rawal) and Raju (Akshay Kumar), Shyam (Suniel Shetty) wouldn’t exist, and Shyam has no meaning. And you take any one of them out, and the film doesn’t work.” He stressed that the trio’s chemistry is the backbone of the franchise.

Fans React to the Exit of Babu Bhaiya

The news of Paresh Rawal’s exit has not gone down well with fans. Many took to social media to express their disappointment.

One user tweeted, “What? So all the fun has exited from Hera Pheri 3?” Another wrote, “No Paresh Rawal, no Hera Pheri 3.” Others urged the makers to reconsider, with comments like, “We can’t imagine Hera Pheri without him… Please bring him back.”

Another fan stated, “It should not be made now… Let the cult remain a cult—don’t destroy the series just for money.” Some hopeful fans suggested Akshay Kumar could convince him to return.

Rawal’s Personal Struggles with Typecasting

In an earlier interview with Lallantop, Paresh Rawal spoke about how deeply the character of Baburao had affected his career.

He said, “Woh gale ka fanda hai… Main actor hoon yaar, mujhe phasna nahi hai iss daldal mein.” Rawal explained that he approached directors like Vishal Bharadwaj and R. Balki to help him break out of the typecast image, seeking roles that maintained the getup but allowed for different characters.

He added, “It does make me happy, yes, but there is a certain pull to it. I want to be free of that.” This sheds light on the emotional and professional reasons behind his departure from the franchise.

Upcoming Projects of Paresh Rawal

Despite stepping away from Hera Pheri 3, Rawal has other projects lined up. He is set to appear in Bhooth Bangla, also directed by Priyadarshan and co-starring Akshay Kumar and Tabu.

The film is currently under production and is expected to release in 2026. Rawal is also working on another project titled Welcome to the Jungle.

About Hera Pheri 3

Hera Pheri 3, directed once again by Priyadarshan, is one of the most anticipated sequels in Bollywood. Fans were eager to see the original trio reunite.

However, with Rawal confirming his exit, it remains to be seen how the film will move forward. The makers have yet to announce a replacement or comment officially on Rawal’s statement.

A Cult Classic That Defined Generations

The Hera Pheri franchise stands as a benchmark in Bollywood comedy. From unforgettable one-liners to relatable characters, it has garnered immense love over the decades.

The departure of a key character like Baburao leaves a significant void, both for the makers and fans alike.

Whether the upcoming film will live up to its legacy without Paresh Rawal remains to be seen. For now, fans continue to hold out hope that their beloved Babu Bhaiya might still make a return.