Paresh Rawal’s Exit from Hera Pheri 3 Leaves a Void in Bollywood’s Most Iconic Comedy Franchise
The beloved Hera Pheri franchise has taken a major hit as veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially confirmed that he will no longer reprise his legendary role of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in Hera Pheri 3. Fans who grew up with the comedy classic are now grappling with the news, and many have expressed doubts about whether the third installment will retain its original charm.
Rawal’s portrayal of the eccentric yet lovable Babu Bhaiya turned him into a household name and helped Hera Pheri achieve cult status. So when Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3, it’s more than just an actor stepping away—it’s the emotional detachment of a character fans have grown to adore over two decades. The news has raised concerns about the film’s ability to maintain its legacy without the full original cast.
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Rawal Confirms His Departure Stemming from Creative Differences with the Makers of Hera Pheri 3
In an exclusive with Bollywood Hungama, Rawal confirmed that he decided to walk away from the project after facing several creative conflicts with the filmmakers. While he did not elaborate in detail, sources close to the production revealed that Rawal had issues with the way his character was being written and how the storyline had shifted from its original tone.
Creative control has always been crucial for Rawal, who has decades of experience in shaping iconic roles. According to insiders, he felt the current version of the script did not do justice to the legacy of Baburao. Rather than compromise the quality or integrity of his character, Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3 on his own terms—leaving behind a void not easily filled.
This isn’t the first time creative differences have rocked the franchise. Akshay Kumar had previously exited the film due to dissatisfaction with the script, only to return later after discussions with the producers. Rawal, however, seems firm in his decision, hinting that his portrayal of Baburao should not be diluted or commercialized further.
Loyal Fans Are Heartbroken, Calling for the Film to Be Shelved Without Baburao’s Presence
Social media platforms have been flooded with emotional reactions from fans since the news broke. Many argue that Hera Pheri 3 will not be the same without the core trio—especially without Rawal’s Babu Bhaiya. One tweet read, “If Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3, it should not be made at all.” Another said, “This isn’t just a movie, it’s a part of our childhood. Don’t ruin it.”
Fans are urging the filmmakers to reconsider moving forward without Rawal. Thousands of posts have called for either his return or the cancellation of the film entirely. Some have even launched hashtags like #NoHeraPheri3WithoutParesh. Their argument is clear: the chemistry between Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal was the backbone of the series, and removing one would destabilize the entire structure.
When cult franchises change cast or tone, they often lose the very magic that made them popular. If Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3 and the filmmakers move on without him, they risk alienating their core audience.
Paresh Rawal Opens Up About Feeling Trapped in the Image of Baburao and Seeking Creative Freedom
In a candid interview with Lallantop, Rawal spoke about the typecasting he has faced since Hera Pheri became a blockbuster. The character of Baburao brought him immense fame, but it also created a lasting image that he found increasingly difficult to break away from.
Rawal shared that in 2007, shortly after Phir Hera Pheri released, he approached filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj seeking a different role that could help him shed the comedic persona. “Woh gale ka fanda hai,” he said, referring to how stifling the success of Baburao had become. He added that he loves the character, but being limited to one style of performance felt restrictive.
More recently, in 2022, Rawal had a similar discussion with director R. Balki, again emphasizing his desire to play complex and challenging roles—even in the same appearance or costume. Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3 not out of disrespect for the franchise, but because he wants to evolve beyond it. He seeks creative fulfillment, not just box office returns.
The Making of Hera Pheri 3 Has Already Been Marred by Casting Issues and Production Delays
The third installment in the Hera Pheri series has been in development limbo for years. Originally planned as a continuation with the original trio, the project hit a snag when Akshay Kumar opted out due to concerns about the script. He was temporarily replaced by Kartik Aaryan, which drew backlash from fans. Eventually, Akshay returned to the project after resolving creative differences with the producers.
Despite Akshay’s return, the film faced further delays and rewrites. Now, with the revelation that Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3, the filmmakers are again left scrambling to figure out how to proceed. They face a difficult choice: recast a legendary character, write him out of the story entirely, or cancel the project.
Recasting Baburao seems almost impossible, as the role is too closely associated with Rawal. Writing him out might satisfy the production timeline, but risks losing fan interest. If the team cannot preserve the legacy of Hera Pheri while respecting Rawal’s departure, the film could flop both critically and commercially.
Paresh Rawal’s Upcoming Films Prove He’s Far from Done and Still a Force in Indian Cinema
Although Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3, he is not stepping back from acting. He remains one of India’s most talented and respected performers and has multiple projects lined up. He will star in Bhooth Bangla, a comedy-horror film also featuring Tabu and Akshay Kumar, directed by the original Hera Pheri filmmaker Priyadarshan. The film is expected to release in 2026.
Rawal is also confirmed for Welcome to the Jungle, another ensemble comedy set in a completely different narrative universe. These projects showcase his range and reaffirm his belief in taking on roles that offer fresh challenges and depth. His decision to quit Hera Pheri 3 isn’t a retreat—it’s a leap toward more diverse, fulfilling work.
Without Rawal’s Baburao, Hera Pheri 3 Faces the Risk of Losing Its Soul
Paresh Rawal’s confirmation that he won’t return for Hera Pheri 3 has significantly impacted the film’s future. His departure raises an important question: can the franchise succeed without the heart and soul that is Baburao?
While the remaining cast members still carry star power, fans believe that without Rawal, the magic will be gone. If the filmmakers go ahead without him, they must be prepared for comparisons and criticisms that may hurt the film’s reception. For now, Paresh Rawal quits Hera Pheri 3, and the entire industry watches what happens next.
