Entertainment
‘How Could He Say No to Me?’: Paresh Rawal Breaks Silence on Akshay Kumar’s ₹25 Crore Hera Pheri 3 Legal Notice
The veteran actor says the legal notice sent by Akshay Kumar after his exit from Hera Pheri 3 was an “emotional reaction” and insists there was never any personal issue between them.
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has opened up about the controversy surrounding Hera Pheri 3, shedding light on his temporary exit from the much-awaited comedy and the ₹25 crore legal notice sent by Akshay Kumar’s production house.
In a recent interview, Paresh clarified that his decision to step away from the film had nothing to do with his relationship with Akshay Kumar. Instead, he said the issue stemmed from contractual obligations and the legal ownership of the franchise.
‘It Was Never About Akshay Kumar’
Paresh Rawal explained that he could not officially commit to the project without the approval of producer Firoz Nadiadwala, whom he described as the owner of the Hera Pheri franchise and several other film properties.
According to the actor, signing the project without the necessary permissions could have exposed him to legal complications.
He said that once legal notices started being exchanged, he questioned whether making the film was worth getting caught in prolonged legal disputes.
Calls the ₹25 Crore Notice an ‘Emotional Reaction’
Reacting to the legal notice issued by Cape of Good Films, Paresh said he believes it was driven more by emotion than intent.
The actor suggested that Akshay Kumar may have been personally disappointed by his decision to leave the project, adding that the notice reflected that emotional response.
Paresh also revealed that the two never had a detailed discussion about the incident. However, they eventually resumed working together, saying some misunderstandings are resolved through mutual understanding rather than lengthy conversations.
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How the Controversy Began
The dispute began in 2025 when Paresh Rawal announced that he was no longer associated with Hera Pheri 3.
Following his exit, Cape of Good Films, backed by Akshay Kumar, reportedly served the veteran actor with a ₹25 crore legal notice, alleging breach of contract and financial losses caused by his withdrawal from the film.
Paresh, however, maintained that his decision was based on contractual and legal considerations rather than creative differences or personal disagreements.
The matter was eventually resolved, and the actor agreed to return to the project, raising hopes among fans that the original trio would reunite on screen.
Fresh Hurdles for Hera Pheri 3
Despite Paresh Rawal’s return, Hera Pheri 3 has continued to face multiple challenges.
The film later became entangled in a legal dispute over the ownership of the franchise rights, with claims and counterclaims adding uncertainty to the project’s future.
Adding to the setbacks, acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan, who was expected to direct the film, also stepped away from the project following reported disagreements with producer Firoz Nadiadwala.
As a result, one of Bollywood’s most anticipated comedy sequels remains delayed, even though fans continue to hope for the return of the iconic trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal.
