Why Paresh Rawal Is One of the Most Versatile Actors in Indian Cinema

Paresh Rawal : When you think of Bollywood’s most iconic characters, Paresh Rawal’s Baburao Ganpatrao Apte from Hera Pheri likely springs to mind, with his unforgettable “Yeh Baburao ka style hai!” But there’s so much more to this veteran actor than his comedic genius. From villainous roles to thought-provoking dramas, Paresh Rawal has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema over a career spanning four decades. As of May 2025, Rawal remains in the headlines, with news of his exit from Hera Pheri 3 and quirky health claims sparking debates. Let’s dive into the life, legacy, and latest updates of this multifaceted legend.

Early Life and Rise to Stardom

Born on May 30, 1955, in Mumbai to a Gujarati family, Paresh Rawal discovered his love for performing arts during his college days. Theatre became his playground, where he not only honed his craft but also met his future wife, Swaroop Sampat, a former Miss India and actress. Their love story, blossoming over 12 years before their 1987 marriage, is the stuff of Bollywood romances—rooted in shared passion and grounded in simplicity. The couple has two sons, Aditya and Aniruddh, both carving their own paths in acting.

Rawal’s cinematic journey began with a small role in Holi (1984), but it was his supporting parts in Arjun (1985) and Naam (1986) that caught attention. Known for his intense villain roles early on, he showcased his versatility in films like Sardar (1993), where he portrayed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with remarkable depth. However, it was the 2000 comedy Hera Pheri that catapulted him to superstardom. His portrayal of the bumbling yet lovable Baburao became a cultural phenomenon, spawning memes and dialogues that remain evergreen.

Paresh Rawal : A Career of Versatility

With over 200 films, Rawal’s filmography is a testament to his range. He’s made audiences laugh in comedies like Hungama (2003), Golmaal (2006), and Welcome (2007), while delivering powerful performances in dramas like Woh Chokri and Sir (1994), earning him a National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. His role as a skeptical atheist in OMG – Oh My God! (2012), which he also produced, showcased his ability to tackle socially relevant themes with nuance.

Rawal’s theatre roots have kept him grounded, and his collaborations with directors like Vishal Bhardwaj and R. Balki reflect his hunger for diverse roles. In a recent April 2025 interview with The Lallantop, he described his Hera Pheri role as a “gale ka fanda” (noose), expressing his desire to break free from comedic typecasting. His praise for peers like Naseeruddin Shah and Anurag Kashyap highlights his respect for authentic storytelling.

Beyond the Screen: Politics and Personal Life

Rawal’s influence extends beyond cinema. From 2014 to 2019, he served as a Member of Parliament for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Ahmedabad East, bringing his charisma to the political stage. On a personal note, his wife, Swaroop, pursued a PhD at 43, embodying the couple’s zest for growth. Their playful dynamic was recently highlighted when Swaroop shared how Rawal once used her savings of Rs 40,000–50,000 to clear a bar debt in their early years—a story that had fans chuckling.

Latest News: What’s Happening in May 2025?

Paresh Rawal is no stranger to making headlines, and May 2025 is no exception. Here’s what’s buzzing:

Exit from Hera Pheri 3

In a shocking update, Rawal confirmed on May 18, 2025, via X that he’s no longer part of Hera Pheri 3. Denying rumors of creative or monetary disputes, he expressed admiration for director Priyadarshan, stating, “I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director.” Fans on X voiced heartbreak, with many arguing the film shouldn’t proceed without Baburao. The reasons for his exit remain unclear, fueling speculation about the franchise’s future.

Controversial Health Claim

In late April 2025, Rawal stirred controversy by revealing he drank his urine for 15 days to recover from a knee injury, claiming it was advised by Veeru Devgan, Ajay Devgn’s father. Medical experts, including Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, debunked the practice as unscientific, while social media erupted with reactions—from memes to debates. Actress Anu Aggarwal backed Rawal, calling urine “amrit” for anti-aging, but the claim has divided opinions.

Upcoming Projects

Rawal’s fans have plenty to look forward to. He’s set to star in Thama, a Diwali 2025 release with Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. He’s also part of Welcome to the Jungle, boasting a stellar cast, and Badtameez Gill, a comedy-drama with Vaani Kapoor. Additionally, The Taj Story, which began shooting in July 2024, promises to showcase his dramatic prowess.

Why Paresh Rawal Remains a Legend

Paresh Rawal’s enduring appeal lies in his ability to reinvent himself. Whether he’s making you laugh, cry, or think, he brings authenticity to every role. His candidness—whether praising Shah Rukh Khan’s honest criticism or sharing quirky anecdotes about Nana Patekar—makes him relatable. Even his controversial health claims spark conversations, proving his relevance in an ever-changing industry.

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As we await his upcoming films, Rawal’s legacy as a versatile actor, producer, and public figure continues to grow. His exit from Hera Pheri 3 may leave a void, but with projects like Thama on the horizon, Paresh Rawal is far from done surprising us.