In a surprising twist that has rocked Bollywood and disappointed millions of fans, Paresh Rawal’s abrupt exit from "Hera Pheri 3" has triggered major controversy and uncertainty around one of India’s most beloved comedy franchises. The sudden fallout has not only stunned the audience but also deeply affected the film’s core cast, especially Suniel Shetty, who has now spoken out about the issue.

Suniel Shetty’s Reaction: "I Was Just as Shocked"

Speaking exclusively to E24, Shetty revealed his disbelief and sorrow over Rawal’s unexpected departure. “I was just as shocked as everyone else,” he confessed. According to Shetty, he had a brief interaction with Paresh Rawal after the news surfaced. “Paresh ji said we’ll meet and talk. We had even shot the trailer. He was very excited, very charged,” Shetty added, his disappointment unmistakable.

Legal Drama Unfolds: Rs 25 Crore Lawsuit Filed Against Paresh Rawal

What was initially perceived as a creative disagreement took a serious legal turn when Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films, reportedly filed a ₹25 crore lawsuit against Rawal. The claim, rooted in an alleged breach of contract, accuses the veteran actor of abandoning the project despite previous commitments.

According to legal sources, if Paresh Rawal fails to respond or compensate within seven days, the production company will pursue both civil and criminal actions, potentially leading to long-drawn legal proceedings.

Shetty’s Emotional Investment: "This is a Crisis"

For Suniel Shetty, this franchise is far more than just another film. It’s a legacy. Expressing his emotional turmoil, Shetty shared, “There are a few films I’m truly passionate about — Welcome, Awara Pagal Deewana, and Hera Pheri. I had committed to only returning for sequels or something exceptionally special like Kesari Veer.”

Recounting the moment he heard the news, Shetty mentioned it was his children, Athiya and Ahaan Shetty, who broke it to him. “They sent me the news and asked, ‘Papa, what is this?’” he recalled, highlighting how the exit sent shockwaves through even his personal circle.

The Legendary Trio: Can Hera Pheri 3 Survive Without Babu Bhaiya?

The Hera Pheri franchise, first launched in 2000 with Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, became a cult classic, loved across generations. Rawal’s portrayal of Babu Bhaiya, in particular, became one of Indian cinema’s most iconic comic characters. The trio’s chemistry was the heart of the films, and their absence or replacement now poses serious challenges for the third installment’s success.

The film was officially revived earlier this year under the direction of Priyadarshan, with Akshay Kumar reclaiming the rights from original producer Feroz Nadiadwala, signaling a strong commitment to delivering a nostalgic and high-quality product. However, the sudden turbulence now casts a dark cloud over those hopes.

What’s Next for Hera Pheri 3?

While fans eagerly await updates, there is a growing sense of uncertainty. Can the production team persuade Paresh Rawal to return? Will another actor step into the shoes of Babu Bhaiya — and if so, will the audience accept the change?

Despite the turmoil, Suniel Shetty remains hopeful. His willingness to resolve the issue and his emotional connection to the project suggest that a potential reconciliation might still be possible. “We need to talk. It’s not over yet,” he hinted, leaving the door open for discussions.

Fan Sentiment: Nostalgia Meets Disappointment

Across social media, fans have expressed a mixture of sadness and frustration. The thought of a Hera Pheri film without the original trio has many doubting whether the magic can ever be recreated. Memes, tributes, and emotional throwbacks to the earlier films have flooded platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit.

The sentiment is clear — this franchise holds deep nostalgic value, and any deviation from the original cast will be met with scrutiny.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Bollywood Franchises

The Hera Pheri 3 controversy isn’t just about casting disputes or contractual disagreements — it’s a reflection of the changing dynamics in Bollywood, where legacy projects come with high stakes, emotional investments, and massive fan expectations.

As the legal and emotional drama unfolds, the industry watches closely. Will Paresh Rawal return to complete the legendary trio, or is Hera Pheri 3 destined to be a sequel that lost its soul before it began?

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain — the story of Hera Pheri 3 has already become one of the most talked-about developments in Bollywood in 2025.