May 20, 2025: The controversy surrounding Hera Pheri 3 continues to escalate, with a growing rift between veteran actor Paresh Rawal, producer-actor Akshay Kumar, and director Priyadarshan. Following Paresh Rawal’s abrupt exit from the much-anticipated comedy sequel, and Akshay Kumar’s subsequent Rs 25 crore lawsuit for breach of contract, new contradictions have emerged between the key players involved.
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In an interview, director Priyadarshan expressed his support for Akshay Kumar’s legal action, emphasizing that Akshay had invested his “hard-earned” money into the project.
“I don’t have anything to lose but Akshay has invested money, and that could be the reason why he is taking this action. Paresh Rawal hasn’t spoken to me till date,” Priyadarshan revealed.
He also clarified that both Paresh Rawal and Suniel Shetty had given their nod to join the project before filming began in April.
“Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel, and I did—and both were onboard,” he said.
However, Paresh Rawal told a different story in his conversation with Mid-Day. According to the veteran actor, he had informed not only Akshay and Suniel Shetty but also Priyadarshan about his decision to step away from the project.
“Priyadarshanji tried to change my mind but he knows me. They all know that if I decide on something, I will follow it up. So they don’t pursue further,” Rawal stated.
Contradictions Spark Confusion
The discrepancy between the director and actor’s statements has cast a shadow over the production. While Rawal insists that all parties were aware of his departure, Priyadarshan maintains no communication was received from Rawal’s end.
This conflict comes despite the trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—starting the shoot earlier this year under Priyadarshan’s direction. Akshay, who also acquired the rights to the franchise from producer Feroz Nadiadwala, is said to have bankrolled the project through his banner Cape of Good Films.
A Legacy of Collaborations in Jeopardy
The unfolding dispute is surprising to many, given the long-standing collaboration between Paresh Rawal and Priyadarshan. The two have worked together on several beloved films like Hungama (2003), Malamaal Weekly (2006), Chup Chup Ke (2006), and De Dana Dan (2009).
Interestingly, the duo is also working on another film, Bhoot Bangla, which stars both Akshay and Rawal, raising further questions about the dynamics between them moving forward.
As fans eagerly await clarity on the fate of Hera Pheri 3, the internal conflict seems far from over. The question now remains—will the original trio reunite, or is this truly the end of an era?