Fans of the much-anticipated comedy film 'Hera Pheri 3' had a worrying weekend after reports began circulating that Paresh Rawal had once again walked out of the popular franchise. However, these reports were not new and were actually based on old information from 2025 that had resurfaced online. Several media outlets republished old stories claiming that Rawal had returned his signing amount along with 15 per cent annual interest and extra compensation for leaving the project. The reports spread quickly on social media, leaving fans concerned about the future of the beloved character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte.
Paresh Rawal and ‘Hera Pheri 3’ Reports Are from 2025
Bollywood Hungama clarified that the viral news was actually a year-old report that resurfaced. In 2025, they had reported that Akshay Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films, had taken Paresh Rawal to court and demanded Rs 25 crore after he allegedly left the film. It was later reported that Rawal had settled the matter by returning his signing amount of Rs 11 lakh along with 15 per cent annual interest and some extra compensation.
Paresh Rawal Was Set to Earn Rs 15 Crore for ‘Hera Pheri 3’
Earlier reports also shed light on the financial details of the deal, revealing that Rawal was set to earn a total fee of Rs 15 crore for the film. Of this, he had reportedly received Rs 11 lakh as his signing amount, with the remaining Rs 14.89 crore to be paid after the film's release. The report further stated that the senior actor had reservations about this clause. Additionally, the film’s principal shoot is expected to commence sometime next year, meaning 'Hera Pheri 3' was unlikely to be released before late 2026 or 2027. In short, Rawal would have had to wait nearly two years to receive the rest of his acting fees.
Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar's Dispute Was Resolved Last Year
However, the dispute between Rawal and Kumar was reportedly patched up shortly after the controversy broke out last year, with the actor eventually returning to the franchise. Another clear indication that the reports are outdated is the timeline referenced in the original article. The stories being reshared still mention that Rawal would have to wait close to two years for the remaining payment if the film were to release in late 2026 or 2027. Given that it is already 2026, the timeline does not add up, further confirming that the news is far from fresh.
Paresh Rawal Is Still Part of ‘Hera Pheri 3’
Amid the confusion caused by the recycled reports, fans of 'Hera Pheri 3' have little reason to worry. According to The Freepress Journal, no fresh developments have emerged to indicate that Rawal has once again stepped away from the project. By all accounts, Baburao remains a part of the much-loved franchise, and fans can look forward to seeing the iconic character on screen whenever the film finally gets off the ground.
Fans Eagerly Await the Reunion of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal
For those who may not be aware, the original 'Hera Pheri', inspired by the Malayalam film 'Ramji Rao Speaking', was a surprise blockbuster that went on to become one of the most quoted and beloved comedies in Indian cinema. Its sequel, 'Phir Hera Pheri', directed by the late Neeraj Vora, continued the hilarious adventures of Raju (Akshay Kumar), Shyam (Suniel Shetty), and the unforgettable Baburao Ganpatrao Apte (Paresh Rawal). While details surrounding 'Hera Pheri 3' remain largely under wraps, fans are eagerly waiting to see the iconic trio reunite on the big screen once again.
