by Sanjay Saxena
Bollywood’s most beloved and talked-about comedy franchise ‘Hera Pheri’ is currently in the headlines due to its third installment. However, this time the reason is not the film’s shooting or promotion, but a major controversy surrounding it. While fans were eagerly waiting for this much-anticipated film, the entire project of ‘Hera Pheri 3’ has now become entangled in controversies. Anger among several big names associated with the film, legal notices, emotional setbacks, and reactions pouring in on social media have turned it into one of Bollywood’s most complicated projects. The biggest shock came when the soul of this franchise, actor Paresh Rawal, distanced himself from the film. Paresh Rawal portrayed the role of Babu Bhaiya in the ‘Hera Pheri’ series, a character immensely loved by audiences. But now, reports suggest that he has withdrawn from ‘Hera Pheri 3’, leaving the film’s producers in a state of confusion.
It is being said that Paresh Rawal returned the signing amount of ₹11 lakh that he received from Akshay Kumar’s production company, along with 15 percent annual interest. On one hand, this move highlights his professional integrity, but on the other, it has shaken the film’s team. The producers expressed their displeasure over his sudden decision and even sent him a legal notice demanding compensation for a ₹25 crore loss. According to the producers, shooting preparations were complete, sets were built, and the crew had been booked all based on Paresh Rawal’s involvement. His withdrawal at such a stage has caused significant financial damage. Paresh Rawal, on the other hand, stated that there were certain issues with the script and direction that he did not agree with, prompting him to step away from the project.
After the news of Paresh Rawal’s exit broke, another emotional reaction came from Akshay Kumar, another pillar of the franchise. Director Priyadarshan revealed in an interview that Akshay had tears in his eyes when he learned Paresh would no longer be a part of the film. Akshay reportedly asked Priyadarshan, “Priyan, why is Paresh doing this to us?” This news spread quickly in the film industry and received mixed reactions from the public. Some supported Paresh Rawal’s decision, while many considered it a significant loss for the future of the film.
Another big name involved in this controversy is Kartik Aaryan. Earlier reports claimed that Kartik Aaryan would replace Akshay Kumar in the role of Raju in ‘Hera Pheri 3’. However, it was later clarified that Kartik was being brought in as a new character. Paresh Rawal also confirmed that Kartik was not replacing Raju, but was being cast in an entirely different role. However, when the script was altered and the storyline changed, Kartik was also dropped from the project. Even Kartik’s involvement had caused fan debates, as most people wanted Akshay Kumar to return as Raju. Hashtags like #NoAkshayNoHeraPheri started trending on social media, creating massive pressure on the producers.
Another controversial issue linked to this film is its director. Farhad Samji was appointed as the director of the movie. He previously directed films like ‘Bachchhan Paandey’ and ‘Housefull 4’. However, audiences and social media users have not appreciated his work and expressed their anger using hashtags like #RemoveFarhadFromHP3. Fans believe that a classic film like ‘Hera Pheri’ should not be compromised and that its direction should be entrusted to an experienced filmmaker capable of preserving its original comedic essence. Farhad Samji responded to the criticism by saying that he is being unfairly targeted and asked audiences to give him a chance to prove that he can do justice to the film.
These controversies surrounding ‘Hera Pheri 3’ have turned the film into a battleground of emotions and legal battles. On one side, the producers had high hopes for the movie, but now they are facing repeated obstacles. The audience had hoped to see the trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal once again, but due to issues related to director selection, script changes, and disagreements among the cast, the project keeps getting delayed. The producers hope to resolve the legal dispute with Paresh Rawal so that the film’s shooting can resume. But the emotional and professional rift caused by this controversy will not be easy to bridge.
The big question now is whether audiences will once again get to see the comic timing of Raju, Shyam, and Babu Bhaiya. Will the filmmakers be able to overcome these major changes and legal disputes to deliver a successful film? Will audiences be able to experience the same magic that was present in ‘Hera Pheri’ and ‘Phir Hera Pheri’? These questions remain unanswered. But one thing is certain: ‘Hera Pheri 3’ is no longer just a film; it has become an emotional attachment, and fans are closely watching every detail.
Today, when every update about a film trends on social media, the controversies around ‘Hera Pheri 3’ have once again proven how significant this film is to its audience. Fans are not just seeking entertainment, they want to relive their old memories. Whether it’s Babu Bhaiya’s famous dialogue “Utha le re deva,” or Raju’s clever tricks, these characters have carved a place in people’s hearts through their dialogues, a place bigger than any controversy. It will now be interesting to see whether this film is made with its original star cast or takes a new turn. But one thing is certain: ‘Hera Pheri 3’ has become more than just a movie it has turned into a deep emotional issue that everyone is serious about.
