Paresh Rawal Walked Out of OMG 2 Before Hera Pheri 3 — Here’s Why

The fallout between Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar over Hera Pheri 3 has left fans divided, the industry tense, and legal teams busy. But this isn’t the first time Rawal walked away from a sequel to one of his iconic films with Akshay. Long before the legal dispute, he had already refused to be a part of Oh My God 2 — not out of conflict, but conviction.

From Baburao Ganpatrao Apte to Kanji Lalji Mehta, Rawal’s characters have become fixtures in Bollywood’s comedic canon. And yet, the actor has repeatedly shown he won’t say yes unless the script aligns with his artistic principles — even if it means stepping away from a legacy.

Oh My God 2: When Principles Took Precedence

In 2021, as buzz around Oh My God 2 gained traction, many assumed Paresh Rawal would return. The 2012 original had paired him with Akshay Kumar in a sharp satire on blind faith and religion, earning both commercial and critical acclaim. But when the sequel was finally announced, Rawal was nowhere in the picture.

Speaking in an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Rawal clarified why: “I didn’t like the script, so didn’t want to be part of it.” The actor stressed he isn’t fond of sequels created just to capitalize on the success of the original. “I don’t like making a sequel just to encash on the first part,” he said, pushing back against the commercial pressures that often define franchise filmmaking.

OMG 2 eventually released in 2023 with Pankaj Tripathi in the lead and Akshay Kumar reprising a reimagined version of his divine character. The film addressed sex education in Indian schools — a bold thematic shift that resonated with audiences. According to Box Office India, it grossed over Rs 205 crore globally, despite Rawal’s absence.

Hera Pheri 3: The Breaking Point

Fast-forward to 2025, and the tension turned legal. In April, Rawal opted out of Hera Pheri 3, midway through production. This time, the exit sparked more than fan disappointment — it triggered a Rs 25 crore lawsuit filed by Akshay Kumar’s production company, Cape of Good Films, as per Economic Times.

According to the production house, Rawal had accepted an advance fee of Rs 11 lakh, participated in pre-shoot activities including a teaser, and then exited without completing the film. The legal notice claims financial loss, promotional delays, and brand damage to the franchise.

Rawal, however, refuted the breach claims. In a public statement, he said, “I wish to put it on record that my decision…was not due to creative differences… I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan.” He added, “I simply did not feel like being part of it,” a line that underscores his long-held stance on authenticity in projects.

Paresh Rawal & Akshay Kumar – Long-Standing Collaboration at Crossroads

For over two decades, Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal have formed one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedic duos. From the madness of Welcome, to the chaos of Bhagam Bhaag, to the sharp satire of OMG, their onscreen chemistry has set benchmarks in the comedy genre.

The pinnacle, of course, remains Hera Pheri. Rawal’s portrayal of Baburao, the quirky, half-deaf garage owner, turned into a cultural touchstone. Even today, Baburao memes flood social media, and his one-liners are quoted by every generation of moviegoers.

Which is why the fallout has felt especially personal for fans — a break not just in a professional collaboration, but in the spirit of something that once felt creatively sacred.

Industry Reacts: Mixed Views, Uncertain Future

Reactions within the industry have been mixed. Actor Eijaz Khan, speaking to Times of India, said: “Nobody can replace him [Paresh Rawal]. You can’t imagine Hera Pheri without Baburao.”

On the legal front, Akshay Kumar’s team claims Rawal’s abrupt exit led to major setbacks in marketing plans and scheduling. As per TOI, footage of a 3.5-minute teaser featuring Rawal had to be scrapped, leading to additional production costs and strategic disruption.

Meanwhile, Cape of Good Films has not ruled out reconciliation. A spokesperson from their legal counsel told Economic Times, “We are still hopeful for an amicable resolution. There is great respect between the parties despite the differences.”

Walking Away with a Pattern, Not an Ego

This isn’t the first time Rawal has left a film midstream. Industry insiders recall his early exit from Billu Barber (2009), also directed by Priyadarshan, which was later reworked with a different cast. In each case, the consistent thread has been his aversion to roles or scripts that don’t align with his evolving standards.

What makes Rawal’s choices significant is not just the high-profile nature of the films he’s turned down, but the timing. In an industry still catching up with conversations around creative ownership, Rawal has quietly but firmly staked his ground.

What Happens to Hera Pheri 3 Now?

As per India Times, the shooting for Hera Pheri 3 has not resumed since the legal notice was served. While the rest of the cast, including Suniel Shetty, remains committed, it’s unclear whether the script will be rewritten or recast entirely.

Fans remain conflicted. While they want closure to the saga, many feel Hera Pheri without Baburao is like a chai without sugar — technically complete, but missing the flavor that made it iconic.

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