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Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has reportedly returned the signing amount for Hera Pheri 3 along with 15% annual interest after opting out of the much-anticipated film.
According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Rawal was initially signed on for ₹15 crore, but decided to step away after expressing concerns over a specific contractual clause.
Sources cited by the entertainment portal revealed that Rawal had been paid ₹11 lakh as a signing amount. The agreement stipulated that the remaining amount — ₹14.89 crore — would only be disbursed one month after the film’s release, a condition the actor found unfavourable.
The principal shoot for Hera Pheri 3 was expected to begin next year, pushing the likely release to late 2026 or even 2027. As a result, Rawal would have had to wait nearly two years to receive his full fee, prompting his decision to exit the project.
In a notable gesture, Rawal returned the signing amount with an added 15% annual interest, along with a bit extra. “He not only paid back the ₹11 lakh but also returned it with interest and a small additional amount, acknowledging his exit from the franchise,” a source told Bollywood Hungama.
Rawal’s sudden exit has stirred controversy, especially among fans who have been eagerly awaiting the third instalment of the cult comedy franchise for nearly two decades. His portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in the original films remains one of his most iconic roles.
Akshay Kumar, who also serves as a producer on the film, has taken legal action against Rawal. Pooja Tidke, Joint Managing Partner at Parinam Law Associates, which represents Kumar’s production house, confirmed legal proceedings had begun.
Speaking to news agency, she said, “I think there will be severe legal consequences. It’s, of course, hurt the franchise. We have written to him letting him know that there are a lot of legal consequences involved.
"There have been expenses incurred towards the cast, the crew, senior actors, logistics, equipment, and the trailer shoot.”
Rawal’s departure has raised concerns over the future of Hera Pheri 3, especially given the long history and emotional connect audiences have with the franchise.
The original Hera Pheri released in 2000 and was directed by Priyadarshan. It starred Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Tabu, Om Puri, and Gulshan Grover.
Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, came out in 2006 under the direction of the late Neeraj Vora and featured Bipasha Basu, Rimi Sen, Johnny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, and Manoj Joshi alongside the original trio.
The third film is expected to be directed by Priyadarshan, returning after nearly two decades since the original hit. However, with Rawal’s exit, the project’s future and cast lineup remain uncertain.
