Priyanka Tiwari
Share
Suspense crime, Digital Desk : The air was thick with anticipation at the "Housefull 5" trailer launch on Tuesday (May 27), and not just for the new comedy. The ongoing legal drama between Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal, following Rawal's sudden departure from the much-hyped "Hera Pheri 3," has been a hot topic. For the first time, Akshay Kumar addressed the controversy head-on.
When a journalist brought up some people calling Paresh Rawal "foolish" for his decision, Akshay was quick to defend his long-time colleague. "It is not right to use this kind of word for one of my co-stars like 'foolish' or something," Akshay stated firmly. "I would not appreciate it, and it's not right. I have worked with him for the last 30 - 32 years. We are very good friends. He is a great actor. I really admire him."
However, when pressed for more details about the situation itself, Akshay made it clear he wouldn't be drawn into a public discussion. "I don't think this is the place where I am going to talk about it," he explained. "Because what has to happen is a very serious matter. It is a matter which is going to be handled by the court and things like that. So I don't think I am going to speak about it here."
The saga began on May 16, when veteran actor Paresh Rawal announced he was quitting "Hera Pheri 3," simply stating the role was "not something he wants to do now." Beyond this brief explanation, Rawal has kept quiet about leaving the iconic comedy franchise, where he immortalized the beloved character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte.
But the silence was soon broken by legal action. Akshay Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films, which is backing "Hera Pheri 3," has reportedly sued Paresh Rawal, seeking a hefty Rs 25 crore in damages for his abrupt exit from the project. Paresh Rawal has confirmed that his legal team has already responded to the lawsuit.
I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. I REITERATE THAT THERE ARE NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER . I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director.
— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) May 18, 2025
According to Cape of Good Films, Paresh Rawal had received Rs 11 lakh as a signing amount for the film. The production company also claims that Rawal had even filmed a teaser for "Hera Pheri 3" alongside Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty, which was apparently close to release before his unexpected departure.
My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response all issues will be laid to rest.
— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) May 25, 2025
Adding another layer to the story, reports suggest that Paresh Rawal has since returned the Rs 11 lakh signing fee, with interest. The full story behind the fallout and its resolution now seems destined for the courtroom.
Read More: Tere Ishk Mein Day 8 Collection Sees Drop as Dhurandhar Dominates Screens
