The Hera Pheri series has been an integral part of Indian comedy films for many years, with the legendary Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal portraying the equally legendary characters of Raju, Shyam, and Babu Bhaiya (also referred to as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte). Fans were looking forward to seeing the trio again in Hera Pheri 3 but if recent news is to be believed, Paresh Rawal will not be returning to play Babu Bhaiya and many fans would like to know who might replace the great Paresh Rawal!
While fans are also actively speculating about who will replace the legendary Paresh Rawal, the name that keeps coming up over and over again on social media is actor Pankaj Tripathi. Pankaj Tripathi is known for his versatility and amazing comic timing, he is capable of taking on roles in mainstream Bollywood films but is very open to taking on roles in independent films as well. But, will he really step in and take over the role of Babu Bhaiya from Paresh Rawal? Let’s see what he said.
Pankaj Tripathi Speaks Up
During a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, where Pankaj Tripathi discussed numerous rumours circulating, he was asked about some fans suggesting he should take over the role of Babu Bhaiya from Paresh Rawal. He humbly responded. “That is something I have also heard and read. I don’t believe in it. Paresh ji is a great actor. I am zero in front of him. I respect him a lot. I don’t think I am the right person for the role.”
His response, although humble, definitely resonated with a number of fans who enjoy both actors. Pankaj Tripathi is clearly talented and could play a comic character in the movies, but even he understands the impossibility of following a character that is so identifiable with another actor, who left that character with the audience.
The Importance of Paresh Rawal’s Walkout
Paresh Rawal’s performance as Babu Bhaiya is one of the most legendary performances in Indian cinema. His timing, mannerisms, and punchlines have made him stick in the heart of millions. It’s hard to imagine the Hera Pheri universe without Babu Bhaiya. So when Rawal abruptly exited the film, a wave of quite understandable discontentment surfaced.
Things escalated when it was reported that Akshay Kumar, who is not only starring but is also producing the film with his production, Cape of Good Films, had sent a legal notice to Paresh Rawal for Rs 25 crore damages for what was termed ‘gross unprofessionalism’ after leaving the film even though he was contracted and had even started shooting.
A History of Abrupt Exits
Somewhat interestingly, this isn’t the first time Paresh Rawal has walked off a project. Earlier he had walked off Shah Rukh Khan’s Billu Barber and he even cited dissatisfaction with the script as the reason to not participate in Oh My God 2. In this instance, the recent clarification of him leaving due to personal reasons on social media, not creative differences, adds another layer to the situation.
Rawal issued a tweet saying that “I wish to place on record that my decision to walk away from Hera Pheri 3 was not because of creative differences. I REITERATE THAT THERE ARE NO CREATIVE DIFFERENCES WITH THE FILM MAKER. I have the utmost love, respect and faith for Mr Priyadarshan the film director.”
The Challenge of Replacing Babu Bhaiya
Recasting a legendary character is never an easy proposition and one like Babu Bhaiya is especially tough. The love for the character is not simply due to the immutably superior writing but largely attributable to the actor. While Pankaj Tripathi’s name is the present buzz, he himself acknowledges that stepping into a role like that would b impossible on his part.
In an age where many ‘actors’ would rush to grab a high-profile role, Tripathi’s response while acknowledging Rawal’s iconic performance speaks to his integrity as an actor.
The Future of Hera Pheri 3
With Paresh Rawal out, and the war in court heating up, who knows? What we do know is that with Akshay Kumar, and Suniel Shetty seem non-negotiable; Babu Bhaiya is going to be missed. Whether the writers re-cast the role or not we don’t know. Time will tell. However, the fans seem split. Some believe that no one could ever compete with Paresh Rawal, and that the franchise should just wait until Rawal is prepared and willing to resume the role before they consider producing H3 (Hera Pheri 3). Others believe that all a new Babu Bhaiya needs to do is show face after all, they are not even considering the reinvention of Babu Bhaiya.
Conclusion
For the moment, Pankaj Tripathi has officially withdrawn his name from consideration for Babu Bhaiya in Hera Pheri 3 (out of respect for Paresh Rawal). At the end of the day the conversation is still keeping fans, and known parties in the moviemaking field amused. One thing is, for certain: Hera Pheri 3 has a long way to go, and the next weeks are certainly going to be pivotal.
At the end of the day if the filmmakers are successful to rightfully make the next generation Babu Bhaiya as the next Babu Bhaiya, whatever outcome they have would not tarnish the original Hera Pheri, some iconic, endearing performances will always preserve. For now, fans can only hope that the magic of the original three, . . . returns.