Bollywood star Akshay Kumar sues co-star Paresh Rawal for ₹25 crore after the actor’s unexpected exit from Hera Pheri 3. Discover the full story behind the legal battle and the film’s production turmoil.

Akshay Kumar Files ₹25 Crore Lawsuit Against Paresh Rawal Over Hera Pheri 3 Exit

In a major twist for the highly anticipated Hera Pheri franchise, actor-producer Akshay Kumar has filed a ₹25 crore lawsuit against veteran actor Paresh Rawal. The legal action comes after Rawal exited Hera Pheri 3 midway through production, citing personal reasons.

Why Akshay Kumar Is Suing Paresh Rawal

According to a report by Hindustan Times, the lawsuit accuses Paresh Rawal of “gross unprofessional conduct.” Akshay, who also serves as the film’s producer under his banner Cape of Good Films, claims that Rawal breached a signed contract by abandoning the project.

Akshay acquired the rights to Hera Pheri 3 from renowned producer Firoz Nadiadwala. This is reportedly the first time in his three-decade-long career that Akshay has taken legal action against a fellow actor.

Filming and Fallout: What Went Wrong?

Production for Hera Pheri 3 began in April 2025 with Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Suniel Shetty returning to reprise their beloved roles. However, after substantial investments had been made in the shoot, Paresh Rawal unexpectedly announced his departure from the project via social media.

Paresh Rawal Denies Creative Disagreements

In his statement on X (formerly Twitter), Rawal denied rumors of creative conflicts. He wrote,

“I would like to clarify that my decision to leave Hera Pheri 3 was not based on creative disagreements. THERE IS NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER, I REITERATE.”

He added that he has immense respect for the film’s director, Priyadarshan, further dismissing speculation around internal disputes.

History Repeats: Paresh Rawal’s Pattern of Exits

This isn’t the first time Paresh Rawal has walked away from a project. He previously backed out of Billu Barber, a film starring Shah Rukh Khan and also directed by Priyadarshan. In 2023, he declined to participate in Oh My God 2 due to dissatisfaction with the script.

Rawal’s Criticism of Bollywood Sequels

In past interviews, Rawal has voiced his discontent with sequels in general. Comparing Hera Pheri’s follow-ups to films like Lage Raho Munna Bhai and Munna Bhai MBBS, he said:

“You cook up the same thing when you make sequels after sequels… there’s mental bankruptcy or mental lethargy. I’m doing the sequel because I don’t want the film to get stuck, but there is no happiness.”

The Future of Hera Pheri 3

Despite the setbacks, the future of Hera Pheri 3 remains uncertain but highly anticipated. Fans are eager to see whether the legal drama off-screen will affect the film’s release or cast lineup moving forward.

Conclusion: Legal Battle Adds Twist to Hera Pheri 3’s Comeback

The unexpected fallout between Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal has added a dramatic twist to Hera Pheri 3. While fans eagerly await the film’s return, this legal conflict could reshape its production and casting. Whether the beloved franchise can overcome this controversy remains to be seen.