Paresh Rawal Returns ₹11 Lakh With Interest to Akshay Kumar’s Production After Exiting Hera Pheri 3
Paresh Rawal Returns ₹11 Lakh With Interest to Akshay Kumar’s Production After Exiting Hera Pheri 3
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially stepped away from Hera Pheri 3, marking a significant moment in Bollywood’s comic legacy. Known for his legendary role as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, Rawal’s unexpected departure has sparked widespread discussion and disappointment among fans.
According to a report, Paresh Rawal returned the ₹11 lakh signing amount he had received from the film’s producers. What makes the gesture notable is that he didn’t stop at just the base amount he also added 15% annual interest and a goodwill bonus, ensuring an amicable exit from the project.
“Paresh Rawal has returned the signing amount of ₹11 lakhs with 15% p.a. interest and also a little more money for stepping away from the series,” a source confirmed.
The fallout reportedly stems from a dispute over the payment clause in his contract. While Rawal’s total fee for the film was fixed at ₹15 crore, the clause mentioned that the remaining ₹14.89 crore would only be disbursed a month after the film’s release, which may not happen until 2026 or 2027.
For Rawal, this meant his payment would be frozen for almost two years, a delay he was reportedly uncomfortable with. Though he had already shot a promo and other scenes, the actor decided to withdraw from the film midway through production.
Legal Notice & Resolution
The situation escalated when Akshay Kumar—who is also co-producing the film—allegedly sent Rawal a legal notice, pointing out the advance payment and hinting at possible civil and criminal action if the issue wasn’t resolved.
Instead of letting the matter spiral, Paresh Rawal took the dignified route—settling the dues with interest and walking away from the project gracefully.
The Hera Pheri franchise has a cult following, and Paresh Rawal’s character Baburao is considered one of the most iconic in Indian comedy. His exit has left fans and industry insiders saddened. Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and director Priyadarshan have all reportedly reacted to the decision, though no official statements have yet been released from their sides.
With the exit of Paresh Rawal, the future of Hera Pheri 3 hangs in the balance. While Akshay and Suniel are still reportedly attached to the project, the absence of Baburao Apte could be a major void, both creatively and commercially.
As Bollywood gears up for one of its most awaited sequels, one thing is clear, Paresh Rawal’s exit marks the end of an era. Whether the filmmakers will recast the role, rewrite the script, or put the film on hold, only time will tell. But for now, fans are left nostalgic, missing the man who made “ye Babu Rao ka style hai” a household phrase.
