Priyadarshan Breaks Silence, Says ‘Paresh Didn’t Inform Us About Hera Pheri 3 Exit’ as Akshay Files Lawsuit

Hera Pheri 3 Jeopardy as Akshay Takes Legal Action Against Disappearing Co-Star

The comedy franchise that has defined a generation is currently facing its most challenging period. Akshay Kumar has filed a shocking lawsuit for $5.3 million against Paresh Rawal, alleging that Rawal sabotaged the much-anticipated film "Hera Pheri 3." This news has sent shockwaves through Bollywood. In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Today, director Priyadarshan revealed the chaos that ensued when Rawal abruptly quit: "Paresh did not inform us. He simply disappeared, leaving 200 crew members in utter turmoil." 

The National Award-winning director's voice trembles with emotion as he describes what has become the unimaginable and unintentional collapse of what was once Hindi cinema's beloved trio.

The Vanishing Act: Rawal's Mysterious Exit

Industry reports indicate that Rawal signed a contract on 1st January 2025 that commits him to a 45-day shooting schedule. Industry reports, however, indicate that from 7th May onwards, he has not reported to at least three consecutive schedules without giving any formal reason for non-reporting. Priyadarshan claims that a US$1.2 million amount has now been lost on pre-built sets and actor retainers. The legal documents accessed by ET indicate that Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films, now claims a willful breach of contract with malicious intent.

Paresh Rawal's official statement denying creative differences with director Priyadarshan, amid allegations of the sudden departure from Hera Pheri 3.

Creative Clash or Financial Feud

Insiders say tensions started at script readings in March. Kumar and Priyadarshan were advocating for a contemporary reboot, while Rawal wanted to maintain the same flavor of the 2000s. An unnamed member of the team reported. Paresh still wanted Baburao—the same one—but test audiences did not respond well to old-school humor. It seems, however, that financial disagreement also widened the differences, as Rawal had reportedly asked for 33% of profits from the film—a staggering number in this role for Bollywood.

Fans React: #SaveHeraPheri Trends Globally

After Kumar's lawsuit, social media began with 287K tweets in 24 hours. While some fans are blaming Rawal for his duty as a Member of Parliament (MP), others are blaming Kumar for bullying. Memes contrasting this rivalry with the movie classic 50-50 partnership trope became viral. Trade analyst Komal Nahta has stated that this controversy could account for as much as 40% of the franchise's anticipated US$25 million opening weekend box office.

What is the way forward? Recast? Reconcile

With the Mumbai High Court hearing the case on August 12, the producers are already considering their next step. Priyadarshan has assured that they have explored other options, including Pankaj Tripathi and Manoj Bajpayee. Multiplex chains have already booked release dates for December 19. As the industry eagerly awaits the verdict, the crucial question remains: Can Hera Pheri continue without its three stars?

Broken Cameras and Broken Bonds—Can Hera Pheri Survive the Betrayal

The Hera Pheri fiasco, a solvent to Bollywood’s glitter, brought out an industry where differences of opinion have been a cause of litigation more and more. While the US$ 5.3 million lawsuit that was filed will finally be decided by a court’s verdict, the real cost is the trust that has been lost, both between the collaborators and in their stormy relationship with the audience. Built this franchise with his blood and sweat, stated Priyadarshan, who seemed distressed, but some partnerships only work once the cameras are off.

While the multiplexes are reserving their slots for December, an important question remains: Can Raju, Baburao, and Ghanshyam recapture their previous success, or will this real-life drama unfold solely in reality? Ultimately, it will be the audience, not the lawyers, who decide whether or not to continue believing once the lights dim.