Sonakshi Sinha Disappointed by Paresh Rawal’s Exit from Hera Pheri 3

Mumbai: Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha recently shared her disappointment over Paresh Rawal’s departure from the highly anticipated comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3. Speaking in an interview, Sinha expressed that she finds it impossible to envision the franchise without Rawal, whose iconic role as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte has been a cornerstone of its success. She emphasized that Rawal’s presence is vital to maintaining the unique charm that has made the series a beloved classic.

Rawal announced his exit from the film on May 18, 2025, via a post on X, clarifying that his decision was not driven by creative disputes. “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. I REITERATE THAT THERE ARE NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director,” he wrote.

Sinha, who is currently promoting her upcoming supernatural thriller Nikita Roy, also reflected on her experience working alongside Rawal in the film. Directed by her brother, Kussh S. Sinha, Nikita Roy marks her first collaboration with the veteran actor. “It was an incredible honor to share the screen with someone of his stature. His remarkable body of work and talent made it a truly enriching experience,” she told. The film, which also stars Arjun Rampal and Suhail Nayyar, is set to hit theaters on June 27, 2025.

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The Hera Pheri franchise, launched in 2000 with the original film directed by Priyadarshan, became a cultural phenomenon thanks to the comedic chemistry of Rawal, Akshay Kumar, and Suniel Shetty. The 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, further cemented its status as a fan favorite. Rawal’s exit has sparked widespread discussion among fans, many of whom share Sinha’s sentiment that his absence could impact the third installment’s appeal.