Priyadarshan reunites with Akshay Kumar after 14 years for 'Bhoot Bangla'

After 14 years, filmmaker Priyadarshan is excited to reunite with actor Akshay Kumar for their upcoming horror-comedy Bhoot Bangla. This duo is known for creating some of the most memorable Bollywood comedies like Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Bhagam Bhag. Their last collaboration was the 2010 film Khatta Meetha.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor to lead Dhoom 4: A new chapter in the Iconic Franchise

Priyadarshan's take on Akshay's comic genius

Priyadarshan expressed his excitement but acknowledged the challenge of living up to audience expectations. "Every film I’ve made with Akshay has been a super hit," said the director. While people credit him for bringing out Akshay's comedic talent, Priyadarshan modestly added, "I just exploited his sense of humour on screen." The filmmaker hopes their new project will resonate with fans, despite the challenge of matching expectations after such a long gap.

Akshay Kumar: A Director’s Delight

Priyadarshan praised Akshay Kumar as a "director's delight," applauding his discipline and professionalism. "After Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay is one of the most dedicated actors who arrives on time and listens to the director," said the filmmaker. They have also collaborated on other comedy hits like De Dana Dan and Garam Masala.

Excited for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Priyadarshan shared his thoughts on the third installment of Bhool Bhulaiyaa, set to release this Diwali. While the director helmed the original 2007 film starring Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, Anees Bazmee directed the sequel in 2022 and will also direct the third part.

A Fresh cast with familiar faces

Kartik Aaryan, who led the second part, returns for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 as Rooh Baba, and this time, he will face off against the iconic spirit of Manjulika, originally played by Vidya Balan. Newcomer Triptii Dimri joins the cast, while Tabu and Kiara Advani starred in the second part.

Why Priyadarshan avoids Directing sequels

Despite his past successes, Priyadarshan has no interest in directing sequels to his own films. He believes a successful film should stand alone and feels sequels often fall short of expectations. "You may get the initial audience, but sequels often don’t live up to the first film," he explained. Though offered opportunities to direct sequels for films like Hungama and Malamaal Weekly, he prefers other filmmakers to take on that task.

Honoured for His Contribution to Cinema

At the IIFA Utsavam event in Abu Dhabi, Priyadarshan was honored with the Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema Award, recognizing his decades of impact in the industry.

Also Read: NTR Jr.’s Devara set to smash Box Office with Rs 100 Crore advance collection on Day 1