Akshay Kumar reveals he was first offered Suniel Shetty's role of Shyam in 'Hera Pheri' but chose Raju instead
Mumbai, March 24 Actor Akshay Kumar, who is all set to be seen in 'Bhooth Bangla', has revealed an unknown fact about his superhit film 'Hera Pheri' and his character Raju. In an exclusive conversation with, ahead of the release of his film 'Bhooth Bangla' Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan spoke about their long association, about horror-comedy genre, about 'Dhurandhar-2' and more.
When asked about Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar's association and how it started with the film 'Hera Pheri', Priyadarshan said, "I was telling him about the role. It was a natural hero-heroine concept, and when I narrated the whole thing, he said, 'I don't want this. I will play the other guy.'"
Further clarifying, Akshay Kumar added, "Actually, he wanted me to play Shyam's role because there was a heroine opposite him and everything was there."
Priyadarshan continued the conversation and revealed, "Suddenly, he said, 'I don't want to play this role. Let Suniel Shetty be the hero; I will play the other guy.'"
Akshay Kumar further added, "I told him I would play second fiddle to him. So, I played Raju's role."
When probed further on why he chose to play Raju instead of Shyam in 'Hera-Pheri', Akshay Kumar answered, "Because I had never done such a role before, someone so mischievous. I had mostly done action roles and 'seedha' (gentle) roles in films like Dhadkan and Ek Rishta. When he was narrating 'Hera Pheri', I found that the character was crazy about money. So I requested him, 'Can I try this role?'"
For the uninitiated, 'Hera Pheri' marked the first collaboration between director Priyadarshan and actor Akshay Kumar. The film went on to become a massive hit and gave a fresh boost to Akshay's career. Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri (2006), also turned out to be a big success.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's fascinating to see an actor actively choose a character that breaks their mold. Shows great instinct. Suniel Shetty was perfect as the straight man Shyam too. The trio's chemistry was magic.
Honestly, this is why Hera Pheri worked. Each actor was in their perfect zone. Akshay as the desperate, scheming Raju, Paresh Rawal as Baburao, and Suniel as the voice of reason. A casting lesson for all filmmakers!
Respect for Akshay sir! Choosing a supporting role over the lead to try something new takes guts. That role defined 2000s comedy. But, just being honest, wish he'd do more such character-driven roles now instead of the patriotic ones back-to-back.
Interesting behind-the-scenes detail. It's a great example of an actor understanding his strengths and the script's needs better than even the director might have. The film is a cult classic for a reason.
Hera Pheri without Akshay's Raju is unthinkable! His expressions, that laugh, the way he said "Anna" to Suniel Shetty... pure gold. This film is our family's go-to for laughs. More such stories please! 😄
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