In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through Bollywood, the producers of the highly anticipated film
Hera Pheri 3 have reportedly taken legal action against veteran actor
Paresh Rawal, seeking a staggering
₹25 crore in damages. The lawsuit alleges "grossly unprofessional behaviour" on Rawal's part, after he reportedly abandoned the film mid-way, despite signing a binding contract and commencing the shoot.
This explosive development comes just days after
Paresh Rawal publicly confirmed his decision to step away from the iconic comedy franchise, leaving millions of fans heartbroken. While Rawal initially cited a lack of interest in the project as his reason, denying any creative or financial disputes, sources close to the production paint a different picture.
According to reports,
Akshay Kumar, who is not only reprising his role as Raju but is also producing "
Hera Pheri 3" under his banner, Cape of Good Films, has initiated the legal proceedings. This marks the first time in Akshay Kumar's illustrious 35-year career that he has taken legal action against a fellow actor for unprofessional conduct.
Sources indicate that Paresh Rawal had been paid more than three times his usual fee for the film. He had reportedly participated in all pre-production activities, including the promotional teaser, and even shot for a day. "Paresh showed a blatant disregard for professional integrity and commercial ethics. If he didn't wish to be part of the film, he should have said so before signing the contract, accepting the advance payment, and letting the production incur significant costs," a source revealed.
The sudden exit has caused considerable financial losses to the producers and dashed the hopes of loyal "Hera Pheri" fans, who have eagerly awaited the return of the beloved trio – Raju (Akshay Kumar), Shyam (Suniel Shetty), and Baburao (Paresh Rawal). The original "Hera Pheri" (2000), directed by Priyadarshan, and its sequel "Phir Hera Pheri" (2006) achieved cult status, with Baburao's character, in particular, becoming a cultural phenomenon.
Priyadarshan, who is directing "Hera Pheri 3," also expressed surprise at Rawal's decision, stating that the actor did not inform them directly. "Akshay has invested money and that could be the reason why he is taking this action. Paresh Rawal hasn't spoken to me till date," Priyadarshan was quoted saying.
This incident highlights a growing shift in Bollywood, where producers are increasingly less tolerant of actors walking in and out of projects at will. Paresh Rawal has a history of opting out of films unexpectedly, having previously exited "Oh My God 2" and "Billu Barber." However, the scale of this legal battle underscores the severity of the alleged breach of contract.
As the legal battle unfolds, the future of "Hera Pheri 3" hangs in the balance, leaving fans to wonder if the iconic comedic trio will ever reunite on screen.
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