Paresh Rawal Did NOT Shoot For Hera Pheri 3, Contrary To Akshay Kumar's Lawyer's Claim: 'Calling Him Unprofessional Is Laughable'

Since Paresh Rawal announced his exit from Hera Pheri 3, his co-star Akshay Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films, has reportedly sued him for Rs 25 crore for leaving the film midway. Recently, Kumar's lawyer claimed that Rawal was paid Rs 11 lakh and never raised any concerns about creative differences during his association with the film. They have accused him of an 'abrupt, unilateral, and mala fide' withdrawal after he had already begun filming for Hera Pheri 3.

Now, a source close to Paresh stated that he did not shoot for Hera Pheri 3. Speaking to IANS, the source said, "Calling someone like Paresh Rawal, a stalwart with four decades of iconic work, 'unprofessional' is not just unfair, it's laughable. Let's be clear: the film hadn't even started. There was a promo shoot, not a film schedule. The real shoot is planned for sometime next year. So, the idea that he 'walked out' is just the worst theatrical imagination at best."

The source added, "He exited long before the tent was even pitched, before the lights, camera, and chaos of the circus rolled into town. Paresh Rawal is someone who has built his career one role at a time-not on headlines, but on honesty, discipline, and sheer craft. He doesn't need the noise, and certainly doesn't thrive on it."

Recently, director Priyadarshan revealed that Akshay Kumar was in tears after learning about Paresh Rawal's decision. In an interview with Mid-Day, the filmmaker shared that ten days ago, Suniel Shetty, Akshay, and Paresh shot a scene along with the IPL (Indian Premier League) teaser. It was only after this that they decided to go ahead with Hera Pheri 3, prompting Akshay to buy the rights to the franchise.

The director added, "Akshay had tears in his eyes when he asked me, 'Priyan, why is Paresh doing this to us?' Akshay shouldn’t suffer financial losses because Paresh walked out on a whim. I understand that he will have to take whatever action is required."