Vidya Balan is poised to make her much-anticipated return in *Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3*, but this time around, her co-stars Akshay Kumar and Kiara Advani will not reprise their roles, leaving many fans surprised and curious about the direction the sequel will take. The absence of Akshay Kumar, who is fondly remembered as the iconic "Rooh Baba," has generated a considerable amount of speculation among the film's loyal followers, particularly with the recent trailer release. In an intriguing twist, lead star Kartik Aaryan had previously mentioned shooting scenes with Kiara Advani, further heightening expectations for her involvement in the film. However, in an exclusive interview with *India Today Digital*, director Anees Bazmee clarified the situation, stating, “No, Kiara is not in the film, and neither is Akshay. We have showcased the entire star cast in the trailer. However, if there's any surprise entry, I would like audiences to go to theatres and watch the film to get their answers,” he said, infusing a lighthearted tone into his comments.
As Bazmee delved deeper into the sequel’s development, he candidly acknowledged the significant pressures associated with creating a follow-up to a film that resonated so well with audiences. He pointed out that, like students preparing for exams, the cast and crew are fully prepared for the challenges ahead. “Like most exams, we are all prepared. However, it's up to the public to give us the final marks. If they are happy, we will feel we did our job well,” he emphasized. His palpable excitement for venturing into the horror-comedy genre was evident, particularly since this marks his first endeavor in the horror space. “I have written a number of films and directed a few, but I never got a chance to do anything in the horror space. I gave it a try, and it worked so well. I remember it was the first film that succeeded just after the pandemic.”
The pressure to deliver a successful sequel is not lost on Bazmee, who articulated that fan expectations are high, which can be both daunting and creatively invigorating. “However, I think this pressure helps us creatively, as you want to give your best,” he shared, reflecting on the balance of audience expectations and artistic integrity. He also mentioned that the creative process is most fruitful when approached with heart, honesty, and a genuine desire to connect with viewers, rather than focusing solely on commercial calculations.
*Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3* also features a stellar cast that includes renowned actors, Madhuri Dixit and Tripti Dimri, adding another layer of excitement and anticipation for the film's release. With such a rich ensemble, audiences are keen to see how these talents will blend into the franchise’s unique blend of horror and humor. As the film approaches its theatrical release on November 1, the excitement continues to build. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Bazmee and the cast will navigate the narrative twists and turns, all while delivering a fresh yet familiar experience.
The franchise's evolution, marked by its distinctive storytelling and character development, promises to keep audiences engaged. As the buzz intensifies, *Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3* stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the horror-comedy genre in Indian cinema. With each new revelation about the film, the anticipation only grows, making it one of the most talked-about releases of the season. As viewers prepare to step into the theaters, the blending of fear and laughter, alongside a compelling storyline, holds the promise of an entertaining cinematic experience.
