The saga of Hera Pheri 3 continues — and not for the first time — in a whirlwind of casting changes, lawsuits, creative exits, and confused fans. After a decade of being stuck in production limbo, the films third installment may now be playing more games with fans than delivering laughs.

The latest twist? Paresh Rawal, beloved as Baburao, has walked out of the film. This shocker comes months after the original team — Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Rawal — reunited under the direction of Priyadarshan, who helmed the original 2000 classic.

Rawal claims he simply does not see himself in the role anymore. There are no creative differences, he said, brushing off speculation. But reports suggest Akshay Kumar is now planning to sue him for 50 crore, citing breach of contract. Priyadarshan and Shetty both claim they were unaware of Rawals decision — a claim Rawal denies, saying he informed them and was even urged to reconsider.

This isnt the first time Hera Pheri 3 has run into trouble. Initially launched in 2015 without Akshay Kumar, it featured a bizarre Duplicate Raju plot with Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham. That version collapsed after director Neeraj Vora fell ill and eventually passed away.

Since then, the film has swapped multiple directors — from Indra Kumar to Farhad Samji — and endured Akshays multiple exits and reentries. In 2023, Akshay reclaimed his role and reportedly roped in Priyadarshan to direct once again. Sanjay Dutt also joined the cast. A teaser was even filmed but never released.

Now, with Rawals sudden departure and legal threats flying, fans are questioning if the drama is real — or just a publicity stunt. A trade insider hints its the latter. This looks like a repeat of the 2022 fan frenzy when Akshay walked out. They know the fanbase is massive, and the chaos just adds to the buzz.

Whether or not the lawsuit goes through, or Rawal returns for one last hurrah, one thing is certain: the Hera Pheri 3 circus isnt over. And for now, the biggest hera pheri might be happening offscreen.