Bollywood fans were left reeling after Suniel Shetty revealed that shooting the promo for Hera Pheri 3 with Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal felt as seamless as it did 25 years ago—only to be blindsided by Paresh Rawal’s sudden exit from the much-loved franchise. The future of the cult comedy now hangs in the balance, with Shetty and Kumar both expressing disbelief and hope for reconciliation.
Nostalgic Reunion, Sudden Shock:
Suniel Shetty, in a candid interview, shared that filming the Hera Pheri 3 promo with Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal “didn’t feel like 25 years had passed.” The trio’s chemistry and camaraderie were instantly rekindled, echoing the magic that made the original films iconic. Shetty described their bond as “wonderful,” with a natural give-and-take that made the experience feel like a true continuation of their earlier work.
Paresh Rawal’s Exit Stuns Cast and Fans:
The joy was short-lived. Just days after the promo shoot, Paresh Rawal announced his exit from the film on social media, leaving Shetty, Kumar, their families, and fans in shock. Even Shetty’s son, Ahan, reached out to ask what had happened. Shetty admitted, “It’s a shocker! It was the biggest excitement for all of us. I don’t think we can imagine anyone else in these characters”.
Uncertainty and Hope:
With legal exchanges now underway between Rawal and Akshay Kumar’s production house, the film’s future is uncertain. Shetty remains hopeful, planning to meet Rawal personally to understand his reasons and encourage a resolution. He emphasized that “nobody can play Babu Bhaiya other than Paresh,” underscoring the irreplaceable nature of the original cast.
Legacy and Memories:
Shetty fondly recalled the early days of Hera Pheri, praising director Priyadarshan for his unique approach and the way he broke casting stereotypes by bringing together action stars for comedy. The actor’s commitment to the franchise and its fans is clear: he wants the original trio to return and deliver another unforgettable chapter in the Hera Pheri saga.
Outlook:
While the fate of Hera Pheri 3 remains in limbo, the emotional bond between its stars and the film’s enduring legacy offer a glimmer of hope. Fans and cast alike are rooting for a reunion that can recapture the magic—25 years on.
Sources: Indian Express, News18, BollywoodShaadis, Navbharat Times, Filmibeat, Times Now, NDTV, Economic Times