Paresh Rawal Claims ‘OMG 2’ Was His Original Idea, Says Akshay Kumar’s Film Took Shape Without Crediting Him

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has claimed that the original concept for OMG 2 was his idea, alleging that he never received credit after the project eventually evolved into the 2023 Akshay Kumar-starrer. Speaking in a recent interview, Rawal said he had developed the story years before the film went into production and had discussed it with several leading actors and filmmakers, including Ajay Devgn, Salman Khan and Karan Johar.

Recalling the origins of the project, Rawal said the idea revolved around sex education and the relationship between parents and children. He explained that he had envisioned the story without introducing a divine character, unlike the version that was eventually released. According to the actor, the concept underwent significant changes after Akshay Kumar became associated with the project, prompting him to step away from it.

Rawal said he had narrated the concept to several prominent personalities in the film industry over the years. Besides Akshay Kumar, he claimed that Ajay Devgn, Salman Khan and filmmaker Karan Johar were all aware of the story. He maintained that the concept had existed long before OMG 2 entered production and insisted that those familiar with the discussions could vouch for his version of events.

The actor also expressed disappointment over what he described as the complete absence of acknowledgement for his contribution. While he said he had no objection to filmmakers modifying the story or taking it in a different direction, he felt he should have at least been credited for the original concept.

“The saddest part is that I wasn’t even given credit for the story or the concept. My name wasn’t mentioned anywhere,” Rawal said, adding that this aspect hurt him more than not being part of the final film.

According to Rawal, Akshay Kumar had also approached him to be part of the sequel. However, he declined because the narrative had changed substantially from his original vision. He reiterated that his version did not feature a godly figure and focused instead on addressing the issue of sex education through realistic family dynamics.

Released in August 2023, OMG 2 was directed by Amit Rai and starred Akshay Kumar, Pankaj Tripathi and Yami Gautam. The film explored the importance of sex education in schools and followed a father fighting for his son’s right to proper education after the teenager faced public humiliation. Before its release, the film underwent scrutiny by the Central Board of Film Certification, which recommended several modifications, including changing Akshay Kumar’s character from Lord Shiva to a divine messenger. The film eventually received an Adults Only (A) certificate with modifications before its theatrical release.

Despite the certification hurdles, OMG 2 was praised by critics for tackling a sensitive subject and performed well at the box office. It also earned multiple award nominations for its story, performances and direction.

Rawal’s latest remarks come amid his ongoing differences with Akshay Kumar over Hera Pheri 3, adding another chapter to the public conversation surrounding the two actors’ professional association. However, neither Akshay Kumar nor the makers of OMG 2 have publicly responded to Rawal’s claims regarding the film’s original concept or the allegation that he was denied credit.