Akshay Kumar Responds to Paresh Rawal's Exit from 'Hera Pheri 3'

Bollywood's top actor Akshay Kumar, who is preparing for the release of 'Housefull 5', has at last commented on the recent controversy surrounding Paresh Rawal's exit from the much-awaited 'Hera Pheri 3'.

During the trailer launch event of ‘Housefull 5’ in Mumbai on Tuesday, Akshay was asked about the reports claiming he had filed a ₹25 crore lawsuit against Paresh following the latter’s announcement to quit the project.

Paresh had reportedly cited a lack of inspiration and freshness in reprising his iconic role of Babu Bhaiyya, a character central to the ‘Hera Pheri’ series.

But when the media posed their query in terms of the word "foolish" in relation to Paresh, Akshay was not pleased.
He strongly retorted, "Let me tell you first, applying this type of word, such as 'foolish' for my co-star, I would not like it. That is not appropriate. I have worked with him for 32 years. We are great friends, and he is a wonderful actor. I respect him a lot."

Akshay also decided to limit his remarks in light of the legal suits underway.
Jo bhi kuch hai (whatever it is), I don't think we should discuss this matter here. Whatever has occurred is a serious issue and it will be dealt with by the court. So I don't think I would like to discuss this matter," he said.

The controversy broke out after it came to light in media reports that Paresh Rawal had walked out of 'Hera Pheri 3', upsetting several fans of the popular franchise. Reacting to it, Akshay, not just an actor in the movie but also a producer who had bought the rights to the film from Firoz Nadiadwala, went to court against the veteran actor.

Paresh explained that his choice was not based on any artistic differences with director Priyadarshan, whom he has a lot of respect for. Rather, he said the decision was thought through, as the character no longer appealed to his artistic sensibilities.