As Paresh Rawal turns 70, looking at his hit pairing with Akshay Kumar

Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar have shared the screen in multiple iconic films, and their pairing has been well-received and loved by audiences. However, lately, the iconic duo has been in the news as they battle out a matter in court.

About Akshay and Paresh recently

The issue? Paresh Rawal exiting Hera Pheri 3 just months after agreeing to be a part of it. The decision, which reportedly left the team blindsided, caused significant financial loss to Akshay Kumar, who had bought the rights to the film for a reported Rs 10 crore. This led Akshay to file a legal suit against the senior actor.

Despite the two actors being embroiled in a legal matter, Akshay Kumar had only good things to say about his friend Paresh Rawal. Recently, when he was asked to comment on Rawal`s exit from the film—and audiences calling the decision “foolish”—Kumar responded,”Let me first tell you, using this kind of word, like foolish for my co-star, I would not appreciate that. That’s not right. We have worked together for the last 35 years. We are very good friends, and he is a great actor. I admire him a lot. Jo bhi kuch hai (whatever it is), I don’t think this is the place to talk about it. Whatever has happened is a serious matter, and it will be handled by the court. So, I don’t think I will speak about it.”

While we hope the two find a solution to their conflict, let’s take a look at the iconic films this beloved duo has worked on together. The reflection is timely, as Paresh Rawal also recently turned 70.

Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal movies

Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006)

This comedy franchise is likely the first that comes to mind when thinking of the duo. Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of Baburao calling out “Rajuuuuu” to Akshay Kumar’s character is a fresh memory for most cinema fans.

Welcome (2007)

Paresh played a caring, father-like uncle to Akshay Kumar’s naïve and sensible character Rajiv in this comic caper.

Garam Masala (2005)

A romantic comedy directed by Priyadarshan, who was also set to direct Hera Pheri 3.

OMG: Oh My God! (2012)

Paresh Rawal plays Kanjilal Mehta, an atheist shopkeeper who sues God after his shop is destroyed by an earthquake. Akshay Kumar plays Krishna Vasudev Yadav, a modern-day incarnation of Lord Krishna who guides Kanjilal.

Bhagam Bhag (2006)

Paresh Rawal plays Champak Chaturvedi, a theater troupe owner, while Akshay Kumar plays an actor in the troupe. Together with Govinda, they form a hilarious trio.

Aankhen (2002)

Both Paresh and Akshay play blind men who are trained for a high-stakes bank heist.

Aitraaz (2004)

Paresh Rawal portrays Advocate Ravi Patel, who defends Akshay Kumar’s Raj Malhotra, accused in a sexual harassment case.

Aan: Men at Work (2004)

Paresh plays Inspector Hari Om Patnaik, while Akshay Kumar plays Inspector Appa Kadam Naik, a fearless cop. Together, they tackle crime in the city.

Awara Paagal Deewana (2002)

Paresh Rawal plays a henpecked husband caught in the middle of a criminal chase. Akshay Kumar plays Guru Gulab Khatri, a gangster seeking redemption. Their paths cross amidst action and comedy.

Next, the duo will be seen together in the film Bhoot Bangla directed by Priyadarshan. 

This article first appeared on Mid Day