Akshay Kumar’s Production House Claims Paresh Rawal Accepted Rs 11 Lakh Signing Amount

The much-anticipated comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3 has hit a major roadblock following Paresh Rawal’s sudden exit from the project, prompting legal action from Akshay Kumar’s production company, Cape of Good Films. The production house has issued a legal notice demanding Rs 25 crore in damages, alleging that Rawal’s departure caused significant financial and scheduling disruptions.

According to a statement from Cape of Good Films, Rawal formally committed to the film by signing a term sheet on March 27, 2025, and accepted a partial payment of Rs 11 lakh as part of his remuneration. The company claims Rawal actively participated in the project, including shooting over three minutes of teaser footage on April 3, 2025, and engaging in creative discussions with co-stars Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. The statement, emphasized that Rawal raised no concerns about creative issues during this period.

The production house alleges that Rawal’s abrupt withdrawal, citing vague creative differences, was an afterthought intended to disrupt the beloved franchise and its goodwill. “If the demand is not complied with within seven days, the company will be constrained to pursue appropriate legal remedies,” the statement warned, hinting at potential civil and criminal action.

The controversy has stirred confusion among the film’s cast and crew. Director Priyadarshan and co-star Suniel Shetty expressed shock at Rawal’s exit, with Shetty learning of the decision through his children, Athiya and Ahaan. Both Shetty and Priyadarshan claimed they were unaware of Rawal’s intentions.

Rawal, who announced his involvement in Hera Pheri 3 via an X post on January 30, 2025, has sparked disappointment among fans of the iconic franchise, which began with the 2000 hit Hera Pheri and continued with its 2006 sequel. The third installment, directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Akshay Kumar after acquiring the rights from Feroz Nadiadwala, had commenced filming in April 2025. The production house claims Rawal’s exit has inflicted heavy financial losses, derailing a project eagerly awaited by audiences.