Hera Pheri 3 controversy: Who can replace Paresh Rawal as Baburao in Bollywood’s toughest casting call yet

Dubai: It’s official — veteran actor Paresh Rawal will not return as Baburao in Hera Pheri 3, and we’re already feeling the void. While he clarified that there were no creative differences with director Priyadarshan, his exit still stings.

With his trademark squint, lovable befuddlement, and iconic one-liners like “Utha le re deva,” Rawal’s Baburao didn’t just entertain — he became the gold standard of Bollywood comedy. Filling those shoes? No easy feat. But its makers including director Priyadarshan and lead actor/producer Akshay Kumar, who has reportedly sued Paresh for his sudden exit, will have to make some tough casting calls. Everyone first thought of Pankaj Tripathi as the next possible Babu Bhaiya.

But the versatile actor, known for his understated brilliance, was quick to bow out of the race, telling Bollywood Hungama, “Paresh Sir is an extraordinary actor, and I am nothing in front of him. I don’t think I am the right person for the job.” A humble refusal, but also an honest one. Baburao isn’t just about performance—he's about legacy.

While the shoes are nearly impossible to fill, here’s a look at a few seasoned actors who might bring a fresh take to Baburao while honoring Rawal’s comic genius:

A seasoned comic actor with impeccable timing, Yadav could tap into the same absurdist charm. He’s eccentric, expressive, and familiar with the Priyadarshan-style comedy format.

Known for his deadpan humor and quirky roles, Mishra brings pathos and wit—two essentials for Baburao. His ability to blend humor with heart could give the character a new emotional depth.

While Lever’s brand of comedy differs from Rawal’s, he’s a legend in his own right. A veteran of physical comedy, Lever could reinvent Baburao with a more theatrical twist—though it risks alienating purists.

Sophisticated yet wildly funny, Irani might be an unconventional but interesting choice. His versatility allows him to swing between emotional beats and comic timing effortlessly.

Deadpan delivery? Check. Offbeat comic energy? Double check. Raaz could take Baburao in a darker, drier direction—something the franchise might consider for a reboot-style evolution.

Perhaps the most respectful decision is to write Baburao out entirely or have the character exit in a heartfelt way onscreen. Letting him remain untouched, like a comedic relic, might be the only way to preserve what Rawal created.

While the emotional drama plays out for fans, a legal storm brews behind the scenes. Akshay Kumar’s Cape of Good Films reportedly slapped Rawal with a Rs 25 crore legal notice for an “abrupt departure,” despite Rawal having publicly stated his respect and trust for Priyadarshan.

Can Baburao be re-cast? Technically, yes. But should he be re-cast? That’s the emotional and cinematic dilemma Hera Pheri 3 now faces. Whoever steps into the role will need to carry the weight of nostalgia and expectation—and that’s a load even Baburao’s beloved soda bottle glasses might not be able to bear.