Hera Pheri 3: Paresh Rawal says Akshay Kumar's legal notice was an emotional reaction

Paresh Rawal on Hera Pheri (Pic/Still from movie)

Hera Pheri 3 has been making headlines over casting changes and legal disputes. Now, Paresh Rawal has finally opened up about his decision to exit the film, clarifying that it had nothing to do with Akshay Kumar. The veteran actor also addressed the legal notice he received and revealed whether he still plans to be a part of the franchise.

Paresh Rawal on Hera Pheri 3 feud

In a recent interaction with Vickey Lalwani, Paresh Rawal revealed why he exited the project. Dismissing rumours of a fallout with Akshay, he said, "No, it wasn't about, ‘I'm uncomfortable working with Akshay Kumar.' It was a contractual obligation. If I were to do the film, I needed the approval of Firoz (Nadiadwala, producer) because he is the sole owner of the Hera Pheri franchise, and also of other films like Awara Paagal Deewana, Welcome, and all of that. Until I had his approval, I simply couldn't commit. When the legal notice came, I thought, ‘Why am I getting dragged into legal issues? Am I here to enjoy making a film or to get caught up in this?' I told myself I didn't want to be a part of it anymore."

Reacting to Akshay's legal notice, Paresh said, "I genuinely believe the legal notice was an emotional reaction. It was probably a case of, ‘How could he say no to me?' He must have been emotionally disturbed. We never really sat down and discussed it, but we worked together afterwards. Sometimes you don't even need to say the words. That's the gentlemanly way of resolving things."

He further said that he will do Hera Pheri 3 whenever it gets made. "I'm married to that film. Whenever they make it, I'll be there."

Priyadarshan not directing Hera Pheri 3

Meanwhile, Hera Pheri 3 has suffered another setback. Producer Firoz Nadiadwala recently confirmed that director Priyadarshan will not helm the upcoming film Hera Pheri 3. Priyadarshan reacted to the same, confirming that he is not associated with the project, while adding that the project will never release.

For the unversed, the 2000 film Hera Pheri was directed by Priyadarshan, while its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri (2006), was helmed by Neeraj Vora. As far as Hera Pheri 3 is concerned, Indra Kumar was officially brought on board in 2018 to direct the third instalment; however, he later exited the project.