"He is the most humble and sweet senior actor."
Paresh Rawal is a beloved actor in Bollywood, known for his impeccable comic timing.
One of his most popular comedic performances is from the Hera Pheri franchise.
The first instalment was released in 2000, followed by Phir Hera Pheri in 2006.
In both films, Paresh amazed viewers as Baburao Ganpatrao ‘Babu Bhaiya’ Apte.
The movies also starred Akshay Kumar as Raju.
A third instalment, Hera Pheri 3, was recently announced, but has been shrouded in controversy.
This came after it was confirmed that Paresh Rawal had decided to exit the project.
Akshay, who is also serving as producer of the film, has allegedly suffered significant losses due to Paresh’s departure.
The Khiladi star is reported to have sent Paresh a legal notice, suing him for breach of trust.
This led to the latter star being called “unprofessional”.
Payal Ghosh, Paresh’s co-star from Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi (2017), recently defended the actor.
She said: “I don’t know the in-depth matter involving the Hera Pheri 3 movie, and hence I wouldn’t like to say anything about it.
“But yes, if there’s one thing that’s unacceptable to me, it is the news that’s being circulated in the media that Paresh Rawal is unprofessional.
“Having worked with him in Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi and having observed him and his work dynamics closely, I can literally vouch and say that he is actually one of the most professional and sincere actors out there.
“Let alone my opinion, do you think a man of his stature would have been there in the industry for such a long time if he were actually unprofessional?
“I definitely feel that there’s a lot more than what meets the eye. It’s for them to look out.
“But I really have a problem with the narrative that’s being circulated in the media that Paresh Rawal is unprofessional.
“No, he is definitely not. He is the most humble and sweet senior actor you can get to work with.
“I hope all this mess settles down soon.”
Paresh’s legal team recently clapped back at the notice sent by Akshay. They commented:
“We have replied to the notice, and Paresh Rawal’s termination is on strong legal footing.”
“They did not deliver the story, screenplay or a draft of a long-form agreement, which was fundamental to the engagement of our client.”
On May 18, 2025, Paresh tweeted: “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences.
“I reiterate that there are no creative disagreements with the filmmaker.
“I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr Priyadarshan, the film director.”
On May 25, Paresh tweeted further: “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit.
“Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest.”
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