Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar is reportedly preparing to file a ₹25 crore lawsuit against actor Paresh Rawal for allegedly disrupting the filming of Hera Pheri 3. The move follows Paresh Rawal’s unexpected withdrawal from the project, which he confirmed via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on May 18.
In his statement, Rawal dismissed any speculation about creative or financial disputes, writing:
“I wish to clarify that my departure from Hera Pheri 3 has nothing to do with creative disagreements or payment issues. I have the utmost regard and trust in Mr. Priyadarshan, our director.”
According to reports, Rawal had been offered nearly three times his regular fee for the project. He had joined co-stars Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty for initial shooting in April, participating in pre-production, teaser filming, and promotional events.
However, insiders claim that Rawal never voiced any concerns during this process and his abrupt exit has disappointed fans and inflicted financial setbacks on the production. Akshay Kumar, who also holds producer rights to the franchise after buying them from Feroz Nadiadwala, views the move as a breach of trust.
Sources close to the production say Rawal’s actions reflect a lack of professional commitment and that Bollywood is gradually shifting towards stricter accountability like in Hollywood.
Hera Pheri 3 follows two cult favourites—Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006)—and was highly anticipated by fans.
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