Paresh Rawal on ‘Hera Pheri 3’ comeback: "A lot has happened, but that hasn’t soured my bond with Priyadarshan"

Paresh Rawal has confirmed his return to Hera Pheri 3, reuniting with Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty for the much-anticipated third installment of the beloved comedy franchise. Known for his iconic portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, Rawal had previously announced his departure from the project, which disappointed fans and reportedly led to legal complications. However, the actor has now shared new updates on the film’s progress and clarified his stance on the situation.

In a recent conversation with News18 Showsha, Rawal revealed that Hera Pheri 3 is currently in the pre-production phase, with filming expected to begin between February and March 2026. “It’s a work in progress. We’ll start shooting for the film in February-March next year,” he said. Despite earlier setbacks, Rawal stated that his relationship with director Priyadarshan remained strong. “A lot has happened, but that hasn’t soured my relationship with Priyadarshan. Aise rishte kharab nahi hote. In fact, it has only made our bond stronger. Through all of this, we understand each other better now. The wound has healed. Our relationship is very transparent,” he shared.

Rawal and Priyadarshan have worked together on more than ten films over the years. Their most recent collaboration was Bhoot Bangla, which marked Priyadarshan’s return to Bollywood. Hera Pheri 3, now backed by Akshay Kumar’s Cape of Good Films, is set to become their 15th film together. The actor’s earlier departure from Hera Pheri 3 reportedly caused financial strain on the production, with Akshay Kumar allegedly initiating legal proceedings. Rawal later explained that he had valid reasons for stepping away and had returned the signing amount with interest.

Addressing fan speculation about a possible Baburao-centric spin-off, Rawal clarified that there were no such plans. “We [Priyadarshan and I] haven’t discussed a spin-off focused on Baburao. A film is a team effort. Ek film sabki wajah se banti hai. I don’t think Baburao can exist on his own. You need Shyam and Raju too,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of the trio’s chemistry, saying, “I’m not a greedy actor, nor am I foolish. I don’t believe the world revolves around me. Even if a standalone film ever happens, Shyam and Raju must be there.”

Reflecting on the franchise, Rawal admitted he wasn’t fully satisfied with the 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri. He felt the characters and storyline could have been handled with more care, adding that Suniel Shetty was the only one who managed to stay true to his role.

Directed by Priyadarshan, the original Hera Pheri released in 2000 and became a cult classic, with Phir Hera Pheri following in 2006. Nearly two decades later, the trio of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao is finally set to return, promising another round of laughter for audiences when Hera Pheri 3 arrives in theaters in 2026.

Also Read: EXPLOSIVE: Paresh Rawal HITS back at those criticizing him over his urine statement: “Are they having a problem because I didn’t offer them? Are they feeling, ‘Yaar yeh akele pee gaye aur humko nahin diya?’!”

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