Mukesh Khanna, known for his role in the cult classic Hera Pheri, has opened up about not being part of its sequel. In an interview with The Filmy Charcha, the veteran actor stated that he was never approached for Hera Pheri 2 despite being a part of the original film.
No Regrets Over Missing the Sequel
Khanna said, "No, I wasn't approached. And I don't regret it. If I'm asked, I'll do it... everyone else was repeated, but I wasn't." He hinted at a past issue with the makers during the first film. "During Hera Pheri, I had a bit of a problem with the producer... his attitude. So I didn't go and ask why I wasn't taken," he added.
Audience Reaction to His Role
Recalling his role, Khanna shared how audiences reacted to his scenes. "When I used to run and Om Puri chased me with a stick, I'd say 'main commissioner hoon!'... people in theatres would shout, 'Arre Shaktimaan bhaag raha hai!'" He speculated that perhaps his character wasn't required in the sequel, saying, "Maybe they didn't feel the need... I wasn't there."
Defending Akshay Kumar
Addressing claims that Akshay Kumar doesn't memorise lines, Khanna dismissed the notion based on his own experience. "I have done six films with him... I've never seen that," he said, referring to projects like Saugandh, Amaanat and International Khiladi. While acknowledging that Akshay's busy schedule might fuel such perceptions, Khanna maintained, "I don't think he forgets dialogues. He's a very dedicated and hardworking actor."
Proposed Film Idea
Khanna also revealed that he had approached Akshay with a film idea a few years ago — a political drama about a paanwala influencing Parliament. "I narrated the story... he heard it but said, 'Mukesh, I won't be able to do this,'" Khanna shared, adding that the actor has become more selective now. The role was initially envisioned for Irrfan Khan, but plans changed after his passing.
Past Criticism and Future Plans
The actor further admitted that he has publicly criticised some of Akshay's choices in the past, including Laxmii. "I've said he shouldn't have done it... maybe he's upset with me, I don't know," Khanna said. Despite this, he added that he intends to reconnect with Akshay in the future for a potential collaboration. Hera Pheri 3 has been a topic of discussion, with Akshay Kumar recently confirming it is not happening right now, leaving fans disappointed.
