May 22, 2025 - Hera Pheri, which was first released in theatres in 2000, is still one of the audience’s favourite films. From Babu Rao’s funny way of speaking… to the characters of Raju and Shyam — all of them remain in people’s hearts.

Phir Hera Pheri, the second part, came in 2006 and was also a big success at the box office. Now, after 19 years, the makers are planning to return with the third part - Hera Pheri 3.

However, in the middle of all this, everyone’s favourite Babu Rao Ganpat Rao Apte, played on screen by Paresh Rawal, has left the film. Suneil Shetty - who plays Shyam - has reacted to Rawal quitting the movie.

Shetty, who is busy promoting his upcoming film Kesari Veer, spoke about Rawal's sudden exit from Hera Pheri 3 and the Rs 25-crore legal notice sent by Akshay Kumar’s production house to the actor.

“I really had no clue about this. We were supposed to start shooting next year, but we moved it up to this year. We have even shot the promo. It’s a very big and shocking thing. I couldn’t understand what happened. I got the news from my children, Athiya and Ahan. They texted me within 15 minutes and asked, ‘Papa, what is this?’ I was in the middle of an interview and thought, ‘Oh God, what’s going on?’”

After hearing the news, Shetty wanted to message Rawal immediately but decided to wait until they could meet face to face. “I haven’t spoken to anyone yet about why this happened so suddenly,” he said.

Shetty added, “This film is very important for our mental health. I don’t know what will happen next.”

Recently, director Priyadarshan also said in an interview that Rawal did not give him any prior notice before leaving the film.