Priyadarshan Denies Bhooth Bangla Is a Sequel to Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Calls Akshay Kumar His ‘Lucky’ Actor
Director Priyadarshan is finally addressing the growing buzz around his upcoming film Bhooth Bangla, which many fans have been comparing to the 2007 hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa. In a recent interview, the filmmaker clarified that the two films are completely different and shouldn’t be compared.
He admitted that high expectations can sometimes become a challenge.
“The biggest problem is expectations. I really don’t like that,” Priyadarshan said. “Every film is different, and you can’t compare this one with another. Bhool Bhulaiyaa was a psychological thriller, but Bhooth Bangla is a fantasy.”
According to him, the new film leans more into supernatural folklore and cultural beliefs. The story explores how superstition and belief in ghosts still influence many people in India.
Priyadarshan on Working With Akshay Kumar Again
The director also spoke warmly about collaborating once again with Akshay Kumar, whom he described as “lucky” for him.
Priyadarshan has worked with Akshay on several successful films in the past, including Hungama and Hulchul. He praised the actor’s versatility, saying he can effortlessly switch between comedy and serious roles.
He also mentioned that working with familiar actors often works in his favor because it helps build a strong creative rhythm on set.
Another actor he considers lucky for his projects is Akshaye Khanna, with whom he has collaborated multiple times.
Similarities With Bhool Bhulaiyaa? Only in Parts
Priyadarshan acknowledged that one element of Bhooth Bangla intentionally echoes Bhool Bhulaiyaa. The song “Ram Ji Bhala Karenge” was designed to evoke a similar vibe.
However, he stressed that this similarity was deliberate and limited. According to him, while both films contain horror elements, their overall stories and tone are very different.
“I don’t want to take any credit from Bhool Bhulaiyaa. This film has nothing to do with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2,” he said, making it clear that Bhooth Bangla is not a sequel to the popular franchise.
Release Date and Cast
Bhooth Bangla features a strong ensemble cast, including:
Akshay Kumar
Paresh Rawal
Rajpal Yadav
Asrani
Tabu
Wamiqa Gabbi
The comedy-horror film is scheduled to release in theatres on April 10, 2026.