Paresh Rawal Explains His ‘Not Friends with Akshay Kumar’ Remark: ‘Taken Out of Context’

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has responded to the recent controversy surrounding his comment about Akshay Kumar, where he stated that Akshay is not his friend but just a colleague. Rawal’s statement surprised many, given the actors’ long-standing association in films like the iconic ‘Hera Pheri’ series and ‘Awara Pagal Deewana.’

The controversy began when Paresh Rawal, in an interview, remarked that Akshay Kumar is not his friend but a colleague. He explained, “In the film industry, you have colleagues, in theatre, you have friends, and in school, you have close friends. But in films, they are colleagues.” His comment led to speculation about a rift between the two actors.

In a follow-up interview with Bollywood Hungama, Rawal clarified his remarks. He expressed frustration over the misunderstanding, saying, “Maatha kharab ho gaya, yaar! I simply said that he’s a colleague. When you say ‘friend,’ it means those whom you meet 5-6 times a month and whom you talk to several times a week. Akshay and I are not social people, so we don’t bump into each other at parties.”

Rawal emphasized that his comment was not meant to diminish his bond with Akshay Kumar. “He’s a great guy. We have done at least 15-20 films together. But we are not the kind who meet regularly or party together,” he added.

Paresh Rawal further highlighted how his words were taken out of context, adding that he will now be “more than careful” while making statements. “People just take things out of context. It’s very tiring to clarify,” he said.

Despite the misunderstanding, Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar continue to maintain a professional relationship. The two will soon be seen together in Priyadarshan’s ‘Bhoot Bangla’ and the much-anticipated ‘Hera Pheri 3,’ proving that their on-screen chemistry remains unaffected.

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