Veteran actor Paresh Rawal’s unexpected departure from Hera Pheri 3 has left fans shocked and triggered legal proceedings from the film’s producer and co-star, Akshay Kumar. According to Rawal’s legal team, the actor returned the signing amount of Rs 11 lakh, along with 15% interest and an additional sum, after stepping away from the much-awaited third instalment of the comedy franchise. His total fee for the project was reportedly Rs 15 crore.While speculations have swirled around possible replacements, actor Pankaj Tripathi has denied any involvement. Interestingly, cricketer Harbhajan Singh offered a tongue-in-cheek suggestion, that Suryakumar Yadav could be the next Baburao Ganpatrao Apte aka Babu Bhaiya.Harbhajan Singh backs Suryakumar Yadav for Babu Bhaiya roleIn a lighthearted chat with Filmygyan, Harbhajan said, “Surya is damn good, Surya is an actor. Yes, Suryakumar is very funny, he is a proper Hera Pheri-wala actor. If I say, there will be some controversy. I am seeing that Paresh Rawal has exited the film. I am reading it now. Akshay bhai, mere pe case mat thok dena.”He added with a laugh, “He won’t be able to act like Paresh Rawal. But yes, he remembers all his dialogues. Maybe he could be the replacement. If he gets the job, then 15% will be mine.”Paresh Rawal clarified that his decision to exit wasn’t due to any fallout with longtime collaborator and director Priyadarshan. Calling it a “carefully considered decision,” he maintained that he continues to respect Priyadarshan deeply and that his exit was not the result of creative differences.
Akshay Kumar stands by Paresh Rawal, calls him a great actorAt the trailer launch of Housefull 5 in Mumbai, Akshay Kumar addressed the controversy, albeit cautiously. When asked about social media comments calling Rawal “foolish” for leaving the franchise, Akshay said, “Using such a word for my co-star… I’d not appreciate that. I have been working with him for the last 32 years. We are very good friends. He’s a great actor. I really admire him.”He further added, “It’s a very serious matter. It is going to be handled by the courts. Hence, I don’t think I’m going to speak about it here.”
