The iconic trio of Raju, Shyam and Baburao is officially returning to the big screen. In a recent interview, veteran actor Paresh Rawal has confirmed that the long-awaited ‘Hera Pheri 3’ is not just a rumor but is actively moving into production. While promoting his upcoming horror-comedy ‘Bhooth Bangla’ alongside Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan, Rawal cleared the air regarding the franchise’s future.
Paresh Rawal gives an update on ‘Hera Pheri 3’
For over a year, ‘Hera Pheri 3’ has been embroiled in a rollercoaster, ranging from casting changes to legal disputes. However, Paresh Rawal has now put all speculation to rest.During a conversation with Moneycontrol, Rawal said “Don’t listen to anything; Hera Pheri 3 is coming. I will start shooting for it soon.”The statement directly addresses the swirl of speculation, delay reports, and conflicting updates that have surrounded the project since it was first announced. For fans who have followed the franchise’s troubled production journey through Paresh Rawal’s reported exit, Akshay Kumar’s alleged Rs. 25 crore damages case, and the eventual resolution of both, hearing the actor himself confirm an imminent shoot start is about as reassuring as it gets. The original trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shettyand Paresh Rawal is set to reprise their iconic roles with Priyadarshan directing the third chapter just as he helmed the beloved 2000 original.
Paresh Rawal on working with Akshay Kumar
The chemistry between the lead stars has led to the franchise’s success. Speaking about his current collaboration with Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan on the sets of ‘Bhooth Bangla’, Rawal opened up on what makes their work together so seamless.Rawal stated, “Insecurity is not anyone’s; Akshay (Kumar), despite being such a big star, is not insecurity. No one will throw dust in my back, it does not feel like this to anyone. Araam se kaam hota hai and with honesty.” (No one has insecurity, not even Akshay, despite being such a big star. No one thinks someone’s going to stab them in the back. Work happens smoothly and with honesty.)Rawal further credited Priyadarshan’s leadership for fostering a generous spirit among the cast. He said, “And all the actors under Priyan Ji’s guidance and direction are very generous and charitable towards each other. “Toh chemistry banti hai woh bhoot hi achcha banta hai.”
More about ‘Hera Pheri 3’
The original ‘Hera Pheri’ released in 2000 and became an instant classic with Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal’s chemistry as Raju, Shyam, and Baburao earning cult status that only deepened over the years. Its sequel, ‘Phir Hera Pheri,’ followed in 2006.The announcement of a third installment was greeted with enormous excitement but the journey since then has been anything but smooth. Paresh Rawal reportedly backed out of the project at one stage, triggering reports that Akshay Kumar had filed a case against him seeking Rs. 25 crore in damages. The dispute was eventually resolved, with Akshay dropping the case and the original trio reuniting for what is now one of the most anticipated Bollywood films in development.
Paresh Rawal on the work front
Before ‘Hera Pheri 3’ hits floors, Akshay Kumar, Priyadarshan, Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav have united in ‘Bhooth Bangla’. The film is scheduled for a release on April 17, 2026. The horror comedy also stars Tabu, Mithila Palkar, the late Asrani and Wamiqa Gabbi in pivotal roles.
