Veteran actor Paresh Rawal’s departure from the much-loved Hera Pheri franchise has left a wave of disappointment among fans and fellow actors alike. Known for his unforgettable portrayal of Babu Bhaiya, Rawal played a crucial role in making the Hera Pheri series iconic in Indian cinema. The news of his exit from Hera Pheri 3, which stars Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty, caught everyone by surprise—including his co-stars. However, Rawal clarified that his decision was not based on any creative disagreements. “I reiterate that there are no creative differences with the filmmaker. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in M Priyadarshan, the film’s director,” he stated, putting to rest any speculation of conflict. While the franchise moves ahead without him, fans are left wondering how the beloved character of Babu Bhaiya can be replaced or reimagined.
Sonakshi Sinha says she's with the internet, can't imagine 'Hera Pheri 3' without Paresh Rawal, as she opens up on working with her 'Nikita Roy' co-star #SonakshiSinha #PareshRawal #HeraPheri3 #HeraPheri #AkshayKumar #SunielShetty https://t.co/7A5mxMYEa3
— ETimes (@etimes) June 24, 2025
Interestingly, while the void left in Hera Pheri 3 stirs emotions, Paresh Rawal is all set to appear next in the film Nikita Roy, releasing in theatres on June 27. The film stars Sonakshi Sinha and is directed by her brother, Kussh S Sinha. Sonakshi, who is currently promoting the film, shared her thoughts on Rawal’s exit and her experience working with him. In a candid conversation with IANS, she said, “There is absolutely no way I can imagine the Hera Pheri franchise without Paresh Rawal.” Echoing the sentiment of millions of fans, Sonakshi emphasized how Rawal’s presence brought a unique charm and humor to the franchise that will be difficult to recreate. Her statement reflects the emotional connection audiences have with long-standing characters and actors, especially those who define a genre or generation of cinema.
‘Hera Pheri 3’: Sonakshi Sinha Calls Paresh Rawal the Soul of the Iconic Comedy Franchise, Says She Cannot Imagine Upcoming Instalment Without Himhttps://t.co/loPxEhKTWc@SonakshiSinha @SirPareshRawal #HeraPheri3 #HeraPheri #SonakshiSinha #PareshRawal #AkshayKumar
— LatestLY (@latestly) June 24, 2025
Sonakshi also opened up about her experience working with Paresh Rawal in Nikita Roy. Describing it as “fantastic,” she added, “It was such an honor for me to share screen space with an actor of his calibre. In terms of his body of work and how amazing he is, it was an amazing experience for me.” Director Kussh S Sinha also expressed his gratitude for having Rawal on board. Speaking to ETimes, he shared that they had only two meetings before Rawal agreed to the project. “He’s spoiled for choice,” Kussh said, acknowledging the actor’s stature in the film industry. “Any director would want to work with Paresh ji. Ninety-nine percent of the industry would want to collaborate with him.” With Nikita Roy ready to hit the big screen, fans may find solace in seeing Rawal in a powerful new role, even as they come to terms with his absence from Hera Pheri 3.
सोनाक्षी सिन्हा और ज़हीर इकबाल इन दिनों अपने रिलेशन और फैशन स्टाइल को लेकर सुर्खियों में हैं. हाल ही में दोनों को ऑल-व्हाइट आउटफिट्स में एक साथ देखा गया, और उनका यह लुक सोशल मीडिया पर ट्रेंड कर गया#SonakshiSinha #ZaheerIqbal #SonakshiZaheerWedding #CoupleGoals #Bollywood pic.twitter.com/c3uEntW9nt
— State Mirror हिंदी (@StateMirrorHn) June 24, 2025
FAQs
Q1: Why did Paresh Rawal leave Hera Pheri 3?
A: Paresh Rawal clarified that his decision to leave Hera Pheri 3 was not due to any creative differences. He continues to respect the director, Priyadarshan, and made the choice on personal grounds.
Q2: What role will Paresh Rawal play next?
A: Paresh Rawal will appear next in Nikita Roy, a film starring Sonakshi Sinha and directed by her brother Kussh S Sinha. The film is set to release on June 27.
Q3: What did Sonakshi Sinha say about Paresh Rawal’s exit from Hera Pheri?
A: Sonakshi said she cannot imagine the franchise without Paresh Rawal and emphasized how essential his presence was to the film’s charm and appeal.
Q4: How was Sonakshi’s experience working with Paresh Rawal?
A: Sonakshi described the experience as fantastic and said it was an honor to work with someone of his calibre and immense talent.
Q5: What is the release date of Nikita Roy?
A: Nikita Roy is scheduled to release in theatres on June 27, featuring Paresh Rawal and Sonakshi Sinha in lead roles.