Hera Pheri 3 Row: Suniel Shetty BIG COMMENT on Paresh Rawal’s exit, ‘Akshay is just as CONFUSED’

In what has come as a stunning blow to fans and the Indian film industry alike, Paresh Rawal, the veteran actor celebrated for his iconic portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in the Hera Pheri series, has announced his departure from Hera Pheri 3. The news has triggered a wave of confusion, disappointment, and emotional responses from his co-stars Suniel Shetty, Akshay Kumar, and director Priyadarshan, who admitted they were caught completely off guard by the actor’s decision.

This unexpected development casts a shadow over one of Bollywood’s most anticipated comedy sequels, raising critical questions about the future of Hera Pheri 3 and whether the franchise can continue without its most beloved character.

The End of an Era?

Since its release in 2000, Hera Pheri has earned cult status among Indian audiences. The comedic trio of Akshay Kumar (Raju), Suniel Shetty (Shyam), and Paresh Rawal (Babu Bhaiya) has become legendary. The chemistry, timing, and unforgettable dialogues turned the movie into a phenomenon that has transcended generations.

In 2006, Phir Hera Pheri, the second installment, cemented the trio’s place in Bollywood history. So when Hera Pheri 3 was announced, fans rejoiced at the idea of seeing their favorite trio reunite. Promos had reportedly already been shot, and shooting was scheduled to begin next year.

However, the emotional connection fans feel with the characters—especially Babu Bhaiya—makes Rawal’s exit feel like a seismic shift in the film’s very foundation.

Paresh Rawal’s Departure: The Silent Exit

Paresh Rawal took to social media recently to confirm his exit from Hera Pheri 3, leaving fans heartbroken. While he made it clear that the decision was not due to creative differences, he provided no detailed explanation. He also clarified that he held director Priyadarshan in high regard, stating:

“This decision is not out of any disrespect. I have the utmost respect for Priyadarshan sir.”

Despite this, the lack of communication or closure has left the director and co-stars baffled and hurt.

Suniel Shetty’s Reaction: “It’s a Crisis”

In an emotional interview, Suniel Shetty, who plays Shyam in the franchise, expressed shock and sadness upon learning of Rawal’s decision.

“This is absolutely shocking. I thought about texting him, but then I decided I would meet him and talk face-to-face. I’ve had no word about it from anyone. Even Akshay is clueless about what happened,” said Shetty.

Calling it a crisis, Suniel said the timing couldn’t be worse:

“We were in the middle of planning. We had even shot a promo. We were supposed to begin full-scale shooting next year. This is the biggest shock.”

Suniel shared that the news reached him through his children, Athiya and Ahan Shetty, who saw it online and sent it to him within minutes.

“I was in the middle of interviews when I saw it. I couldn’t believe it. I felt like—holy… what’s going on?”

Director Priyadarshan “Deeply Hurt”

Director Priyadarshan, a veteran of Indian cinema and the creative force behind the original Hera Pheri, also shared his disappointment. He was not only hurt by the sudden exit but also by the lack of direct communication from Rawal.

“I have no idea what happened. His exit is actually a shock for me. All I can say is—I’m hurt,” he said.

Priyadarshan explained that he considered Paresh Rawal as more than just a co-worker.

“He was like family. I started this journey with him, and now, all of a sudden, he’s backed out without giving any explanation. That hurts.”

Despite reaching out to Rawal by phone, Priyadarshan revealed that his calls went unanswered.

“He didn’t pick up. I thought he would at least talk to me once and explain. But nothing.”

He also addressed rumors that Akshay Kumar might sue Rawal over the exit, dismissing them as “naturally ridiculous”, but admitted that the situation is chaotic and painful for everyone involved.

Akshay Kumar “Clueless”

According to both Suniel Shetty and Priyadarshan, even Akshay Kumar, who plays Raju, was unaware of Rawal’s decision until it became public. As one of the core pillars of the franchise, Akshay’s involvement has been instrumental in drawing fan interest toward Hera Pheri 3.

While Akshay has not yet made an official statement, sources close to the actor suggest he is surprised and upset, especially since the trio was all set to reunite after multiple production delays.

Why Is This So Big?

To understand the gravity of this situation, one must look at what Babu Bhaiya means to Indian pop culture. Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of the good-hearted but perpetually confused garage owner became a pop icon, with his catchphrases and expressions finding a permanent place in memes, fan pages, and everyday language.

For many fans, Hera Pheri without Babu Bhaiya is unthinkable. His presence was the comedic glue that held the trio together. His absence now raises a daunting question: Can the film succeed without him?

Fans React: Disbelief and Sadness

Fans took to social media platforms with a flood of emotional posts expressing disappointment, nostalgia, and a shared sense of loss.

“Hera Pheri is incomplete without Babu Bhaiya. This hurts,” read one tweet.
“We waited for years, and now this? Why would Paresh Rawal leave us hanging?” said another user on Instagram.

Within hours, hashtags like #NoHeraPheriWithoutBabuRao and #BringBackPareshRawal started trending, signaling how deeply this decision has impacted public sentiment.

Can the Show Go On Without Paresh Rawal?

With production already partially underway and a promo shot, the team is now at a crossroads. They can either recast the character—a decision likely to face massive backlash—or rewrite the script to remove Babu Bhaiya altogether, which might compromise the film’s appeal.

So far, no replacement has been announced, and there’s speculation about whether the producers will try to convince Rawal to return or move ahead with a new face. Either choice comes with substantial creative and commercial risk.

Is There More to the Story?

While Rawal insists there are no creative differences and denies any disrespect, the silence and sudden nature of his exit have left many questioning whether something deeper is at play—be it scheduling conflicts, personal priorities, or unseen disagreements with the production team.

Priyadarshan hinted that he suspects some kind of behind-the-scenes issue, stating:

“There might be a conspiracy or something going on, but I really don’t know. I just hope he talks to me.”

What’s Next for Hera Pheri 3?

Despite the shock and uncertainty, the makers of Hera Pheri 3 have not officially called off the project. Industry insiders suggest the script may undergo revisions while the team decides on how to address the missing puzzle piece.

Producers remain hopeful, and fans are still clinging to the chance that Paresh Rawal might reconsider.

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Conclusion: A Film in Crisis, A Legacy at Stake

Hera Pheri 3 was supposed to be the grand return of India’s most loved comedy trio. Instead, it now faces a casting crisis, an emotional void, and the daunting challenge of continuing without one of its foundational stars.

The exit of Paresh Rawal from Hera Pheri 3 is more than just a casting change—it’s a cultural moment that reflects the deep bond between actors and their iconic roles, and the power of public memory. For now, the future of the film hangs in limbo.

As fans wait with bated breath, one thing is certain: without Babu Bhaiya, it won’t be easy to laugh the same way again.

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