Suniel Shetty’s Heartfelt Birthday Wish to Paresh Rawal Amid Hera Pheri 3 Controversy

On May 30, 2025, Bollywood veteran Paresh Rawal celebrated his 70th birthday, and amidst the ongoing Hera Pheri 3 controversy, co-star Suniel Shetty took to X to share a warm and heartfelt birthday message. The gesture has sparked hope among fans that Rawal, known for his iconic role as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, might reconsider his exit from the much-anticipated third installment of the beloved comedy franchise.

A Bond Beyond the Screen

Suniel Shetty, who plays Shyam in the Hera Pheri series, posted on X, calling Paresh Rawal a “powerhouse of both wit and wisdom” and a “wonderful human being.” The message, accompanied by a throwback picture, read:

“To the man… Who is a powerhouse of both Wit & Wisdom and an even more wonderful human being. Happy happy birthday Pareshji. Much love and respect always. @SirPareshRawal”

This heartfelt tribute comes at a time when the Hera Pheri 3 project is mired in controversy. Paresh Rawal’s sudden exit from the film, where he was set to reprise his iconic role as Babu Bhaiya, has left fans and the film’s team in shock. The dispute has escalated with reports of a legal tussle between Rawal and Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films, which claims financial losses due to Rawal’s departure.

The Hera Pheri 3 Controversy

The Hera Pheri franchise, known for its timeless humor and unforgettable characters, has been a fan favorite since the release of the first film in 2000, followed by Phir Hera Pheri in 2006. The trio of Akshay Kumar (Raju), Suniel Shetty (Shyam), and Paresh Rawal (Baburao) created cinematic magic, with Rawal’s Babu Bhaiya becoming a cultural icon for his comedic timing and memorable dialogues.

However, Hera Pheri 3 has faced numerous hurdles. After years of delays, the project finally began shooting with director Priyadarshan at the helm. The excitement was palpable when the original trio reunited for a promo shoot, but the joy was short-lived. On May 18, 2025, Paresh Rawal announced his exit from the film, citing issues unrelated to creative differences, though earlier reports suggested dissatisfaction with the script’s direction.

Akshay Kumar’s production house responded by reportedly filing a ₹25 crore lawsuit against Rawal, alleging that his sudden withdrawal disrupted the project’s momentum. Rawal, in turn, clarified on X that his decision was not due to creative disagreements with Priyadarshan, emphasizing his respect for the director.

Suniel Shetty, caught in the middle, expressed his shock and heartbreak over the situation. In interviews, he emphasized the irreplaceable nature of Rawal’s character, stating, “Hera Pheri cannot happen without Paresh, without Raju, and Shyam.” He also revealed plans to meet Rawal to discuss the matter, hoping for a reconciliation that could save the project and preserve their long-standing friendship.

Fans Rally for Babu Bhaiya’s Return

The news of Rawal’s exit has sparked a wave of disappointment among fans, who have taken to X to voice their support for the original trio. One user pleaded, “Aap convince karke please lekar aao @SirPareshRawal ji ko Hera Pheri 3 mai aur aaj unka janam din bhi hai, gile sikve mitakar dobara nahi jud sakte? Please Anna.” Another wrote, “Sir Apni misunderstanding dur kijiye aur hum audiences ke baare mein sochiye! Please work together in Hera Pheri 3. We really want 3 of you in one frame.”

The outpouring of love for Paresh Rawal on his birthday has fueled speculation that he might surprise fans by returning to the project. Rawal’s portrayal of Babu Bhaiya, often compared to the wit of RK Laxman’s characters and the charm of Charlie Chaplin, remains a cornerstone of the franchise’s legacy. In a past interview, Rawal even expressed openness to a Babu Rao spin-off, highlighting the character’s enduring appeal.

A Legacy Worth Saving

Suniel Shetty’s birthday message is more than just a tribute; it’s a testament to the deep bond shared by the Hera Pheri trio, both on and off-screen. As fans continue to hope for a resolution, Shetty’s words serve as a reminder of the camaraderie that made the franchise iconic. Whether Paresh Rawal returns to Hera Pheri 3 or not, his contribution as Babu Bhaiya will always hold a special place in the hearts of Indian cinema lovers.

For now, the future of Hera Pheri 3 remains uncertain, but the love for Babu Bhaiya and the hope for a reunion keep the spirit of the franchise alive. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, and let’s wish Paresh Rawal a very happy 70th birthday!

What are your thoughts on the Hera Pheri 3 controversy? Do you think Paresh Rawal will return as Babu Bhaiya? Share your thoughts in the comments below!