Veteran actor Paresh Rawal’s legal team, Anand & Naik, has finally addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding his departure from the anticipated comedy film Hera Pheri 3. This is the first official response after weeks of speculation and tension between Rawal and the film’s producers.
Legal Clarification Issued
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Paresh Rawal had earlier promised that his lawyer, Ameet Naik, would issue a formal clarification. He stated, “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response all issues will be laid to rest.” True to his word, the legal team confirmed that Rawal opted out of the project due to the absence of a proper agreement, screenplay, or production plan.
My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response all issues will be laid to rest.
— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) May 25, 2025
The Producer’s Legal Notices
According to sources close to The Times of India, producer Firoz Nadiadwala, who holds the rights to the original Hera Pheri films, has sent legal notices to key members of the franchise Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Priyadarshan, and Paresh Rawal. The notices prohibit them from engaging in any activity including promotions or endorsements linked to the Hera Pheri franchise. The notices claim the IP (intellectual property) of all characters, including the beloved Babu Bhaiya, belongs solely to Nadiadwala.
Behind the Scenes: Trust and Term Sheets
Sources revealed that in March, during the shoot of Bhoot Bangla, Akshay Kumar asked Rawal to sign a preliminary document (term sheet) for Hera Pheri 3, assuring him that a full agreement would follow. Trusting his long-time co-star, Rawal signed without seeing a script or schedule. However, by April, when Rawal was asked to shoot a promotional video for the film, concerns resurfaced as no script or detailed agreement had been shared.
Exit Explained
According to Rawal’s lawyers, the decision to exit was prompted by the lack of transparency. “They did not deliver the story, screenplay or a draft of a long-form agreement,” the legal team stated. Furthermore, the ongoing legal complications initiated by Nadiadwala added to the actor’s decision to withdraw. Rawal returned the money received, with interest, asserting that proceeding without a binding agreement would be improper.
Conclusion
While Hera Pheri 3 remains clouded by uncertainty, Paresh Rawal’s legal team has made it clear that his exit was lawful and justified. With the iconic character of Babu Bhaiya hanging in limbo, fans now await clarity on the future of the beloved franchise.
