Our Bureau
Mumbai
The recent exit of veteran actor Paresh Rawal from the third installment of the Hera Pheri franchise has caused a frenzy in the industry. His departure from the film has erupted in a legal tussle between him and the producer and co-actor Akshay Kumar. Rawal, who remained silent till now, has finally spoken on the matter and confirmed that his lawyers have responded on the matter.
He took to his social media and wrote, “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response all issues will be laid to rest.”
There were reports that suggested that Akshay Kumar had sued Paresh Rawal for Rs. 25 crores for his abrupt exit amidst the shooting of Hera Pheri 3. His legal team has also approached Rawal and has told him about the repercussions of his abrupt departure and the legal issues he will have to face.
Pooja Tidke, the legal representative of Akshay and Joint Managing Partner of Parinam Law Associate, said to PTI, “I think there will be severe legal consequences. It’s of course hurt the franchise. We have written to him letting him know that there are a lot of legal consequences involved. There have been expenses incurred towards the cast, towards the crew, towards leading senior actors, logistics equipment, and shooting of the trailer.”
Tidke also talked about how they had already shot three and half minutes of the film. The contracts also stated that they were out to shoot a trailer for the film. But this sudden departure of Mr. Rawal has left everyone in shock and confusion. She also stated that damage to the reputation of the co-stars as well as the franchise has been heavy and the audience that has been waiting for the film for so long have had nothing but disappointment.
“There’s reputational damage involved for the actors that are committed to the film, the franchise as a whole, and of course, there’s a great deal of disappointment among the audience. So, we’re optimistic that things will work out, but as of now we’re facing legal issues.”
Ameet Naik, the legal representative of Paresh Rawal for these contract disputes is a well-known lawyer. He has previously represented Amitabh Bachchan and Anil Kapoor in key legal cases. The details of the legal response by Rawal’s team have not been disclosed yet.
