The Hera Pheri franchise, a cornerstone of Indian comedy cinema, faces a significant shift as veteran actor Paresh Rawal confirms his departure from the upcoming Hera Pheri 3. Known for his iconic portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, Rawal’s exit raises questions about the future of the series and its beloved characters.
Paresh Rawal’s Departure: Clarifying the Reasons
On May 18, 2025, Paresh Rawal officially announced his decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3. Addressing speculations, he clarified that his exit was not due to creative differences or financial disagreements. In a statement, Rawal expressed his respect for director Priyadarshan and emphasized that his decision was based on personal reasons.
Suniel Shetty’s Stance: Unity of the Original Trio
Following Rawal’s announcement, co-star Suniel Shetty, who plays Shyam, expressed his sentiments regarding the original cast’s unity. Shetty stated that the essence of Hera Pheri lies in the chemistry between the trio—Raju, Shyam, and Baburao—and that the film’s success hinges on their collective presence. He implied that without Rawal’s Baburao, the dynamic would be incomplete.
Production Timeline: Delays and Developments
Despite initial reports suggesting that the original cast had begun shooting scenes for Hera Pheri 3, the production has faced delays. Paresh Rawal mentioned that the film is expected to go on floors in early 2026, following the completion of other projects involving the cast and director.
Teaser Release: Awaiting Official Confirmation
There were plans to release the teaser of Hera Pheri 3 before the IPL 2025 finale. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, including geopolitical tensions affecting entertainment content during the IPL, the teaser’s release has been postponed. Fans now await an official announcement regarding the new release date.
The Legacy of Baburao: A Cultural Phenomenon
Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, affectionately known as Babu Bhaiya, has become a cultural icon since his debut in Hera Pheri (2000). Rawal’s portrayal brought a unique blend of humor and heart, making the character a fan favorite. His absence in the upcoming installment marks the end of an era for the franchise.
What’s Next for Hera Pheri 3?
With Rawal’s departure, the production team faces the challenge of maintaining the franchise’s essence. While Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty remain attached to the project, the dynamics will inevitably shift. As fans, we can only hope that the spirit of Hera Pheri continues to thrive in its next chapter.
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