Paresh Rawal Says Baburao Deserves More Exploration in Hera Pheri
Paresh Rawal Says Baburao Deserves More Exploration in Hera Pheri
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal, one of Indian cinema’s most versatile performers, recently shared his thoughts on being typecast because of his iconic role as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte from the Hera Pheri franchise. During an insightful chat with Raj Shamani on his podcast, the actor admitted that while the audience’s love for Baburao remains unmatched, the character’s popularity has often overshadowed many of his other acclaimed performances.
Reflecting on the creative stagnation surrounding the portrayal of Baburao, Rawal said,
“What happens is that just to please people, you keep churning out the same thing. When Raju Hirani made Munnabhai MBBS, the same characters were seen in different contexts, and audiences enjoyed that. But when we already have a character with goodwill worth 500 crores, why not take a creative risk and explore new layers? Why stay stagnant?”
He further emphasized that Baburao’s potential as a character remains largely untapped.
“My idea was to experiment with the role in different ways because audiences are open to it. Unfortunately, we end up repeating the same formula. Baburao has overshadowed many of my other roles, but I understand why people love him so much. Still, I feel bad when intelligent filmmakers keep recycling the same thing. It’s frustrating because Baburao has tremendous scope — people would believe anything he says.”
Paresh Rawal Says Baburao Deserves More Exploration in Hera Pheri
Rawal also revealed that he has declined multiple offers to play characters resembling Baburao in other projects.
“I’ve turned down many roles that were essentially caricatures of Baburao. Everyone wants to cash in on that image, but legally, the character belongs to Firoz Nadiadwala. So, in a way, it’s a blessing in disguise — I can’t portray him elsewhere even if I wanted to.”
The acclaimed actor will soon return as Baburao in Hera Pheri 3, alongside Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty, reprising their beloved roles as Raju and Shyam. Although Rawal had briefly exited the project due to creative differences, he has now rejoined the team. The much-awaited comedy is expected to go on floors early next year.
With fans eagerly awaiting Baburao’s next chapter, Rawal’s comments serve as both a reflection on creative integrity and a reminder of why the Hera Pheri franchise continues to hold a special place in Indian pop culture.
Paresh Rawal Says Baburao Deserves More Exploration in Hera Pheri
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