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Akshay Kumar Chose Raju Over Shyam in Hera Pheri for a Crazy Challenge

Akshay Kumar has revealed a little-known casting detail about the classic comedy 'Hera Pheri'. Director Priyadarshan initially offered him the role of Shyam, which had a conventional hero arc with a romantic interest. However, Akshay chose to play the mischievous, money-obsessed Raju instead, wanting to break away from his typical action and gentle roles. This decision marked the beginning of his successful collaboration with Priyadarshan and resulted in one of his most iconic performances.

Key Points: Akshay Kumar Reveals He Was First Offered Shyam in Hera Pheri

  • Akshay was first offered Shyam's role
  • He insisted on playing Raju instead
  • Wanted to break from his action hero image
  • Role was a mischievous character crazy about money
  • Marked his first collaboration with Priyadarshan
2 min read

Akshay Kumar reveals he was first offered Suniel Shetty's role of Shyam in 'Hera Pheri' but chose Raju instead

Akshay Kumar reveals Priyadarshan first offered him Suniel Shetty's role of Shyam in Hera Pheri, but he chose to play Raju instead.

Akshay Kumar reveals he was first offered Suniel Shetty's role of Shyam in 'Hera Pheri' but chose Raju instead
"I told him I would play second fiddle to him. So, I played Raju's role. - Akshay Kumar"

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

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
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.
P
Priya S
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!
R
Rohit P
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.
M
Michael C
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.
K
Kavya N
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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