Priyadarshan Upset Over Paresh Rawal’s Exit from Hera Pheri 3
Recently, renowned director Priyadarshan expressed his frustration regarding the situation surrounding the film Hera Pheri 3. In a call he received on Tuesday evening, Priyadarshan didn’t hold back his feelings. "What is going on? Why is Paresh behaving like this? I’ve always considered him family in my film journey. I really don’t need this stress," he said. He emphasized that he is financially secure and doesn’t need to make another film, including Hera Pheri.
How did this whole project come about? Priyadarshan explained, “I never intended to return to Hera Pheri, not even when it was made 25 years ago. It was Akshay Kumar who encouraged me. While we were shooting Bhoot Bungla, he told me he had secured the rights for Hera Pheri and wanted me to direct it. I agreed, as it’s hard to say no to Akshay.”
The director shared that the unexpected drama has caused him a lot of stress. "I’m currently enjoying peace in my village, surrounded by family. I don’t need any added tension right now. I’ve done enough filmmaking," he said.
Priyadarshan was puzzled by Paresh Rawal’s sudden withdrawal from the project. "He hasn’t provided any explanation to either me or Akshay. I came up with a concept for Hera Pheri 3 that everyone, including Paresh, liked. We even filmed some scenes together without any hint of dissatisfaction from him. It feels like a conspiracy," he lamented.
When asked if Paresh communicated his decision to leave, Priyadarshan said, "Not at all! When I reached out to him, he told me not to try calling, as he wanted to avoid discussing it. Is this respect? I’m deeply hurt. I’ve had a long working relationship with Paresh; he has always been my go-to for Hindi scripts."
Regarding Akshay Kumar’s recent legal action against Paresh Rawal over financial issues, Priyadarshan remarked that he understood Akshay’s decision. He added, "He invested a lot in the film rights, and with Paresh opting out, it’s Akshay’s concern now. I’m here to support him, though the financial repercussions fall on him. Everyone, including Paresh, received an advance."
As for the future of Hera Pheri 3 without Paresh, Priyadarshan was candid. "I really don’t care anymore. I was doing this for Akshay. I have commitments to fulfill, including films with Akshay and Saif. I’d rather spend time with my grandchild than deal with unprofessional actors."
With that, Priyadarshan made it clear that he is weighing his future in filmmaking, hinting at a potential retirement from the industry if such issues continue.
