Akshay Kumar dismisses publicity stunt claims around ‘Hera Pheri 3’ dispute with Paresh Rawal

Actor Akshay Kumar has addressed the long-standing controversy surrounding Hera Pheri 3 and clarified that the legal dispute involving co-star Paresh Rawal was not part of a promotional tactic.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Kumar responded to speculation that the back-and-forth over casting and legal matters was staged. “No. This wasn’t a publicity stunt. The things went legal, so it cannot be a publicity stunt,” he said, adding that the matter has since been resolved and “any kind of announcement” about the film could be made soon. “Thoda bahaut ho gaya tha upar niche (things went a little south), but now everything is resolved. We have always been together,” he added, referring to his relationship with Rawal and co-star Suniel Shetty.

The Hera Pheri 3 saga began in 2022 when Kumar announced he wouldn’t return to the popular franchise due to creative differences. This led to rumours that Kartik Aaryan might take over his role. However, Kumar later returned to the project, joining Rawal and Shetty in a promotional shoot for the film, giving fans hope for the original trio’s reunion.

Tensions flared again earlier this year when reports claimed Rawal had exited the film, allegedly over differences with director Priyadarshan. Rawal confirmed his departure but denied any issues with the director. Soon after, news surfaced that Kumar, who holds rights to the franchise, had taken legal action against Rawal, prompting the veteran actor to reportedly return payments he had received.

In the weeks that followed, both actors reportedly reconciled, with Rawal back on board for the third installment. With the dispute behind them, Hera Pheri 3 has resumed development, reuniting the original cast more than two decades after the first film released in 2000.