The news that Kartik Aaryan would take over Akshay Kumar's role as Raju in Hera Pheri 3 greatly saddened fans.

Suniel Shetty was one of many who expressed surprise at Akshay's choice to end the renowned comedy franchise. Now, if the most recent rumors are to be believed, Varun Dhawan, not Kartik, was the original choice to play Raju, but he declined the role.

According to sources, Anand Pandit and Firoz Nadiadwala approached Varun first with the Hera Pheri 3 proposition. Because of Varun's comedic timing, both wanted him to play Raju. Additionally, the two also requested David Dhawan and his son Rohit Dhawan to co-direct the movie. But out of great respect for Akshay Kumar, who has made the Hera Pheri franchise a smash, Varun politely declined the offer.

Varun Dhawan didn't want to disrespect Akshay Kumar.

"Varun has tremendous respect for Akshay Kumar and did not want to use the problematic relationship between Akshay and Firoz to further his ascent to fame. Although Hera Pheri 3 will be a super hit, Varun withdrew out of respect for Akshay. David Dhawan, his father, shared his sentiments," revealed a source. The source also mentioned that Varun and his father David informed Firoz and Anand of their choice.

After bringing Kartik on board, the producers are searching for the director. Rumor is that the director, Anees Bazmee, has been asked to take on the role. But a decision needs to be made anyway.

About Hera Pheri

Priyadarshan directed Hera Pheri, which was released in 2000. Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal appeared in it. The film is a remake of Ramji Rao from 1989 in Malayalam, influenced by the 1971 television picture See The Man Run.

About Phir Hera Pheri

Raju, Shyam, and landlord Baburao are the main characters of the first installment, Hera Pheri. Raju and Shyam are tenants in severe need of money when they receive a ransom call from a cross-link. Phir Hera Pheri, the second part, was released in 2006. Rajpal Yadav, Johnny Lever, Rimi Sen, and Bipasha Basu were also present. The 1998 film Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels was a significant source of inspiration for the central premise.