Paresh Rawal didn't inform, Akshay Kumar has put in his hard-earned money in Hera Pheri 3, says director Priyadarshan

Paresh Rawal didn't inform, Akshay Kumar has put in his hard-earned money in Hera Pheri 3, says director Priyadarshan

The beloved Hera Pheri franchise has hit a rough patch, with a legal storm brewing between two of its most iconic stars. Days after veteran actor Paresh Rawal announced his sudden exit from Hera Pheri 3, reports surfaced that Akshay Kumar’s production house had filed a legal suit against him, citing "unprofessional behavior." Now, director Priyadarshan has stepped forward to break his silence on the controversy, offering clarity and support for Kumar’s actions.

Speaking with Hindustan Times, Priyadarshan revealed that Akshay Kumar had not only shown a keen interest in reviving the franchise but had also taken the extra step of legally acquiring the rights to the film from producer Feroz Nadiadwala. This personal investment, both financial and creative, has placed the actor in a challenging position following Rawal’s unexpected departure.

“I don't know why this happened because Paresh didn't inform us. Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel, and I did — both were onboard,” Priyadarshan shared. He expressed surprise and disappointment over the lack of communication from Rawal, especially after initial confirmations had been secured.

The filmmaker, who is also collaborating with Akshay and Paresh on the upcoming Bhooth Bangla, added that while he doesn’t have a direct financial stake in Hera Pheri 3, Kumar has invested heavily. “I have nothing to lose. It’s Akshay who has put in his hard-earned money, so it's only natural for him to take strict action,” he said.

A source close to the legal proceedings further emphasized the seriousness of the matter, accusing Rawal of disregarding professional ethics. “If Paresh didn’t want to do the film, he should have said so before signing the contract, accepting the signing amount, and letting the producers proceed with pre-production,” the source stated.

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In response to the allegations, Paresh Rawal told media, “I am not aware of this yet,” suggesting he may not have been informed of the legal notice at the time.

Earlier this year, Priyadarshan had announced the return of Hera Pheri with its original trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal. Rawal’s sudden withdrawal, however, has left fans disheartened and the film’s future uncertain. Meanwhile, Kumar’s production house has reportedly sought Rs 25 crore in damages for the disruption caused.

As the drama unfolds off-screen, Akshay Kumar has wrapped up shooting for Bhooth Bangla, a separate venture that still features both Priyadarshan and Paresh Rawal—highlighting the complex professional ties among the trio amid this legal and emotional fallout.