OMG! Kartik Aaryan replaces Akshay Kumar in yet another hit franchise after Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2

Mumbai (Maharashtra): Kartik Aaryan is currently at the height of his career with some of the most anticipated projects in his pocket. The actor has had a busy year and it seems that he will be even busier in the coming year with his work commitments. Now reports suggest that the actor has been roped in by Firoz Nadiadwala for the upcoming Hera Pheri 3! It had been previously mentioned that Firoz Nadiadwala will be coming up with the third part of the hit franchise after Phir Hera Pheri teased another film during the ending sequence in 2006.

A source close to the development revealed to Pinkvilla, “The paperwork and handshake happened a day back with Firoz Nadiadwala’s office. Kartik Aaryan has signed the dotted lines to play the iconic role of Raju, played by Akshay Kumar in Hera Pheri and Phir Hera Pheri. Both Kartik Aaryan and Firoz Nadiadwala are keen to sign Anees Bazmee as the director, however, the filmmaker is yet to give a go-ahead from his end,” revealed a source close to the development, adding further that the upcoming Hera Pheri film will reboot the franchise. “Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, who played Shyam and BabuRao in the earlier two films, will continue to reprise their roles.”

“After Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Kartik Aaryan has got a solid lineup in place – From Satyaprem Ki Katha to Aashiqui 3, Pyaar Ka Punchnama 3, and now, Hera Pheri 3/4 (whatever title they decide). He also has the Sajid Nadiadwala production with Kabir Khan and Captain India slated to go on floors sometime next year,” the source added.

Reports also suggest that the makers are toying with the idea of adding spice to the role of Raju by making it a double role or something similar. Akshay Kumar previously played the role of Raju, which gained a substantial fan following over the years. It would be interesting to watch Kartik Aaryan’s take on the quirky character and whether he would be able to do justice to him. Kartik had also taken up Akshay Kumar’s place in the Bhool Bhulaiyaa sequel which the audience hailed for being a breath of fresh air among the several flops.