‘Once They Read My Response…’: Paresh Rawal’s Legal Blow in Hera Pheri 3 Spat

May 25, 2025: Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially broken his silence on the ongoing controversy surrounding his exit from the highly anticipated film Hera Pheri 3. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Rawal confirmed that his legal team has responded to the issue, signaling a definitive end to speculation about his departure from the franchise.

“My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest,” Rawal posted.

The controversy erupted after rumors surfaced that Akshay Kumar, who stars alongside Rawal in the Hera Pheri series, had sued him over an alleged breach of contract. Reports claimed that Rawal had already shot three-and-a-half minutes of the film before abruptly walking away. However, a source close to the actor dismissed these claims, clarifying that a full-fledged shoot had not commenced — only a promotional teaser had been filmed.

“Calling someone like Paresh Rawal, a stalwart with four decades of iconic work, ‘unprofessional’ is not just unfair, it’s laughable. The film hadn’t even started. The real shoot is planned for sometime next year,” said the insider.

Further reports from Bollywood Hungama revealed that Rawal has returned the ₹11 lakh signing fee, along with 15% annual interest and an additional amount to compensate for the project withdrawal. The total remuneration for his role was reportedly ₹15 crore, with an unusual payment structure that would have withheld nearly the entire amount until one month after the film’s release—expected in late 2026 or 2027.

This delay and contractual structure reportedly led to Rawal’s exit, which in turn triggered a reported ₹25 crore lawsuit by Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films.

As the legal battle unfolds, Rawal’s dignified stance and transparent handling of the matter have won support from many in the film industry, who view the actor’s exit as both professional and justified given the unusual contract terms.

Hera Pheri 3 remains one of the most talked-about Bollywood projects, and the absence of one of its most beloved characters, Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, will certainly impact its dynamic.