More and more filmmakers who can’t afford Akshay Kumar, are inclined to opt for Kartik Aryan. After all, they do have similar (non-filmy) backgrounds — Both are clean-cut, health-conscious, unassuming, affable, handsome North Indians with a huge following among women and children. No wonder Kartik is seen as the ideal replacement for Akshay.

Recently, Kartik was signed for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2; the original 2007 hit film had featured Akshay Kumar. Now comes the news that Kartik will play Akshay’s part in the third film of the Hera Pheri franchise. According to sources, Kartik will step into Akshay’s shoes while Paresh Rawal and Suniel Shetty will play their original parts in Hera Pheri 3. This should be interesting.