There’s a lot of talk online about Phir Hera Pheri 3. And no, it’s not about the story, action or release date. It’s because Paresh Rawal, the actor who played the legendary Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, is not doing the film.
First, there was a report stating that he was not doing the film due to creative differences. Then, another report claimed that when the shoot began, there was no proper script, no clear idea about Baburao’s role, and no formal contract. As a result, he didn’t feel confident about the project and backed out. However, these are all reports—nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Later, Akshay Kumar’s production team sent him a legal notice of ₹25 crore, alleging that he left after accepting a signing amount of ₹11 lakh.
Rawal’s team says he gave the money back, with interest, and that there was never a written agreement. All of this has made things very messy.
If Paresh ji left Phir Hera Pheri 3 due to creative differences, he is not alone. Anurag Kashya left the bollywood industry due to creative stagnation
Fans Want Only One Babu Bhaiya
Let’s be honest — Babu Bhaiya is not just a character, he’s an emotion for fans. His funny voice, silly jokes, comic delivery timing and confused face made us laugh for years. Even today, Hera Pheri and Phir Hera Pheri are shown on TV almost every week. Kids, teenagers, and even older people share memes of Babu Bhaiya every single day.
Paresh Rawal’s acting was so natural that no one else has even tried to play Baburao again. It’s one of those rare roles in Bollywood where people say, “Only one man can do it.”
But now, with Rawal not in the film, the big question is — who can possibly play Babu Bhaiya?
Here Are 5 Actors Who Might Try Babu Bhaiya Role
1. Pankaj Tripathi
Pankaj Tripathi is one of the best actors in India right now. He can do serious roles and funny roles with ease. He played a priest in Stree, a gangster in Mirzapur, and a father in Gunjan Saxena. He can easily bring a fresh version of Babu Bhaiya — someone real, simple, and funny.
2. Govinda
Govinda is a comedy legend. In the 90s, no one could match his funny expressions and dancing skills. If the makers want a louder and funnier version of Babu Bhaiya, Govinda could be a fun choice. He’s got the energy, the style, and the comic timing.
3. Boman Irani
Boman Irani is smart, funny, and super talented. We’ve seen him in Munna Bhai MBBS, 3 Idiots, and Housefull. He knows how to make people laugh without trying too hard. He could play Babu Bhaiya in a new way — maybe as a more calm and clever version.
4. Nana Patekar
Nana Patekar might seem like a serious actor, but remember him in Welcome? He was hilarious! He speaks in a different style and has a strong voice. If the makers want a slightly angry but funny Babu Bhaiya, Nana can do it in his own unique way.
5. Anupam Kher
Anupam Kher has been doing films for over 30 years. He can do comedy, drama, and everything in between. He’s very natural on screen and could add his own charm to the role. If anyone can bring emotion and laughter together, it’s him.
Can Anyone Really Replace Paresh Rawal?
To be very honest — no. Babu Bhaiya and Paresh Rawal are like one person. You just can’t separate them. Even actors know this. No one has come forward and said, “I want to do this role.” That’s how much respect people have for Paresh Rawal’s work.
But if the movie has to be made and the makers want someone else, then the five actors above are the best choices we have. They are all talented, experienced, and loved by the audience.
Still, for most of us, there will only ever be one Babu Bhaiya — Paresh Rawal.
What’s our take on this
Paresh Rawal’s exit from Hera Pheri 3 was a personal choice, not due to creative or financial disputes. He felt disconnected from the project and don’t want to destroy the legacy of Baburao Apte. He even returned the signing amount with interest, showing responsibility. However, Akshay Kumar’s production house claims his sudden exit caused Rs 25 crore in losses, leading to a legal notice. Director Priyadarshan and Suniel Shetty were shocked, citing prior filming and contracts. Both sides have valid points: Rawal’s right to choose versus the project’s disruption. The issue is under legal review, and the film’s future is uncertain.
Share your thoughts, how do you view this matter?
